In the absence of any other confirmed information, speculation mounts and options continue to be bandied around concerning the layout for the proposed WRC event in south-east Queensland.


Considering the information that has been released, especially the reference to ‘permanent infrastructure’ within a 50 kilometre radius of Brisbane, all manner of prospects have been put forward.

One that has been recently suggested by an un-named source involves the legendary Lakeside Raceway in Brisbane’s northern suburbs.

Famous for many years as one of the quickest race circuits in this country, racing stopped many years ago due to financial considerations, the impinging nature of residential development and concerns over noise and amenities.

Over the past few years, supporters of the race circuit have been in discussion with the local authority, Pine Rivers Shire Council, in an effort to resurrect the circuit for some motorsporting purposes.

There was even an attempt to have the circuit listed with Queensland’s Environmental Protection Agency as a heritage-significant icon.

In Brisbane’s local newspaper ‘The Courier Mail’ yesterday, motoring scribe Gordon Lomas reported that Queensland Raceway Pty Ltd had recently won a tender to redevelop and revive the iconic circuit.

It is proposed to open early next year, but the report mentions that no V8 racing will be permitted, thus excluding the site as a potential home for V8 Supercars.

The environmental impact of the redevelopment is of paramount importance with particular attention having to be paid to noise levels, heritage obligations and re-vegetation.

Lakeside International Raceway will be renamed Lakeside Park and will be apparently used for a number of activities including motorcycle training, product launches, historic racing and static displays.

There is no obvious connection between Queensland Raceway Pty Ltd and IQG Rally Events Australia Pty Ltd, and there is no immediate reference to any activities connected with rallying.

However, the site fits the general requirements as a potential site for a Super Special Stage (subject to actual design and construction) and as a major service park.

Forest stages would need to be conducted north of Brisbane in the traditional Beerburrum forest and areas to the north.

International standard accommodation is available in Brisbane city 40 minutes travelling time through the suburban road network, or by a similar distance on the Bruce Highway to the Sunshine Coast north of the site.

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