Queensland Raceway wins Lakeside Management Tender
The Pine Rivers Shire Council has selected Queensland Raceway for the redevelopment and management of the former Lakeside raceway at Kurwongbah.
Chief Executive Officer, Ray Burton, said the selection process was difficult as there were environmental considerations and a high standard of submissions from the short-listed organisations which included Queensland Police Citizens Youth Welfare Association and Total Driver Pty Ltd.
"The successful submission by Queensland Raceway will begin a new era at Lakeside," Mr Burton said. "The facility's name will change slightly from Lakeside International Raceway to Lakeside Park in keeping with the green environment of the site."
Mr Burton said Queensland Raceway's redevelopment would address the environmental impact of motorised sport, which included noise levels, heritage obligations and a revegetation strategy.
"Council is negotiating a management agreement and contract with Queensland Raceway which will include the times of operation," he said. "Queensland Raceway will also preserve the park's flora, fauna and vista for the enjoyment of current and future generations as it is developed into a revitalised venue and successful business operation. This organisation will liaise and consult with the Council's environment officers and Pine Water to ensure the preservation of the physical environs including air, water and soil."
Queensland Raceway's winning submission included a range of driver and motorcycle training activities, mileston and historic racing events, displays and non-motorised recreational activities.
Mr Burton said Lakeside Park was expected to be open for business in 2007.
Queensland Raceway spokesman John Tetley said while the redevelopment would require a lot of financial investment and support he believed the sentiment of its supporters and the soul of the venue would help his organisation to return Lakeside to an even stronger community asset than before, involving a broad cross-section of community group and business participation.