Perth to replace Barbagallo?

The V8 Supercar Series could be racing on a new purpose-built facility in Western Australia with a matter of years, after plans to create a 'state-of-the-art motorsport precinct' were given a commitment by the state government.

A series of high-level talks in Perth resulted in the authorities re-emphasising that they would do all they could to retain the V8s in Western Australia beyond the current 2009 deadline, either by constructing a brand new facility or upgrading the existing Barbagallo Raceway to international standard.

"The minister totally agreed that motorsport in the state had been under-serviced for many years, and made a very strong and very real commitment to addressing the problem," V8 Supercars Australia chief executive Wayne Cattach relayed after leaving two days of negotiations with West Australia sports minister John Kobelke, the Department of Sport Recreation and the Wanneroo City Council.

"He had a clear understanding of the magnitude of the sport and the need to find a suitable venue and management structure to develop motorsport in the state. Minister Kobelke also agreed that a brand new motorsport precinct and the concept of a motorsport park provided an excellent business opportunity for the state."

Cattach confirmed that both a fresh start and the complete revamp of Barbagallo would be investigated by independent consultants as soon as possible, but stressed that timeframes were critical.

"We made it very clear that there is a very tight timeframe for a decision to get a positive outcome if we are to return after our current contract expires in 2009," he said.

Cattach also reported that mayor of Wanneroo Jon Kelly and state member for the city, Dianne Guise, both supported the bid to establish an international standard complex in Western Australia.

"Quite clearly they want to retain the event for the city of Wanneroo, but they also recognise the gross short comings of the Barbagallo circuit," Cattach concluded.