Advisory Committee Sought for Potential Motor Sports Complex

Council has solidified its commitment to the creation of a motor sports facility in Mount Isa, with expressions of interest now being called for membership of a North West Motor Sports Complex Advisory Committee.

At Saturday’s Sign-On Expo at the Buchanan Park Entertainment Centre, expression of interest forms for Advisory Committee membership will be available from Council’s information booth.

Sectors of the Mount Isa community have over the years expressed their interest to Council regarding the development of a purpose-built precinct for holding a variety of local motor sports, including raceway and drag car events.

Council has recognised this ongoing interest, with one of the recommendations in its 2018-2027 Sport and Recreation Strategy to reconsider previously conducted feasibility studies into a motor sports facility.

Mayor Joyce McCulloch said Council’s vision has always been to improve the liveability of the city and for Mount Isa to be the regional hub of the North West region, which involves enhancing current assets and services, with a focus on sport and recreational activities.

“We want to hear from locals who would be interested in being a part of a committee that will spearhead the assessment, planning and possible development of a motor sports complex in Mount Isa,” Cr McCulloch said.

“Committee members’ information and advice will be invaluable in assisting us to determine whether a motor sports complex in Mount Isa will be a viable and sustainable facility for a variety of local motor sports activities, and if so, what is the best way to go about developing it.

“I encourage anyone who is involved in local motor sports, or who has an interest in motor sports, to come along to the Sign-On Expo on Saturday and put their name down to be a part of the Advisory Committee.”

The Advisory Committee’s roles will include:

• Assessing the demand for a motor sports facility in Mount Isa and the demand potential of existing and new user groups;
• Providing advice and supporting information on these demands;
• Assessing and comparing the design and sustainability aspects of existing facilities in similar regional areas and providing recommendations;
• Developing early conceptual options for the design and operation of a motor sports facility in Mount Isa; and
• Researching funding opportunities for the facility.

“The motor sports complex is a great concept and by looking into all of the funding opportunities – both Government and non-Government – that are available, it will ensure there will be no impost on community funds,” Cr McCulloch said.