In October 2006, CAMS reached agreement in principle with i-METT to promote and organise Australia's WRC round and a five year agreement (with two five year options) was subsequently signed by both CAMS and i-METT in March of this year. Â
Since that time, CAMS officials have been developing the sporting aspects of the event. A highly skilled and experienced team comprising senior rally personnel from Queensland and the former Rally Australia team in Western Australia has made significant progress in preparation for a September 2008 event. Â
In addition to promoting the WRC round, i-METT also proposes to develop a large tourism precinct in South East Queensland, comprising an international standard motor racing circuit, theme park, hotels, automotive technology park and education facilities. Â
As part of its due diligence process, CAMS required, and was provided with, proof of i-METT's funding for the overall project, estimated to cost in the vicinity of $650 million (Australian dollars). The World Rally Championship project is closely linked to the construction and completion of the overall i-METT project, which in turn is dependent upon various Government approvals that are being progressed but have not yet been granted. Â
Whilst the receipt of this request is extremely disappointing to CAMS, having regard for the timing imperatives, CAMS believes that the request by i-METT to postpone the first Queensland event until 2009 is in the best interests of the FIA World Rally Championship, Australia's standing in the eyes of the world's motor sport community and the long term future of rallying in Australia. Â
"CAMS will continue to work with all parties to retain Australia's place in the FIA World Rally Championship calendar and to support the development of a world class motor sport precinct," said CAMS President Colin Osborne.