New racetrack proposed for NSW Central Coast

A new racetrack and social hub has been earmarked for coastal New South Wales. Set to be dubbed Community Automotive Sport and Recreation (CASAR) Park, the facility will be the third racetrack in NSW, alongside Sydney Motor Sport Park (formerly Eastern Creek Raceway) and Wakefield Park.

Located in close proximity to Lake Macquarie City, the site includes a 3.5km racetrack and comprises 115 hectares of land bordering the Sydney-Newcastle (F3) freeway and northern train line on the northern edge of the Wyong Shire.

The Park, which has been strongly backed by Wyong Shire Council, Central Coast Tourism, The Australian Federation of Motor Sport and enthusiastic locals, in a bid to satisfy the needs of local motorsport fans and to boost tourism in the area.

CASAR Park co-founder Brad Wilson said: “as a group, we see the big picture. The economic and social significance of such a facility is not lost on us – the flow-on effect to local tourism, hospitality and retail operators are exactly what our region needs."

The idea for the raceway was initially conceived in 2010, and, after 500 hours of research and planning, organisers are now ready to submit an application for the project.

Supporters are still faced with the hurdle of raising $350,000 by September 30 for application costs – to be acquired through community fundraising and corporate sponsorship.

An additional $14 million will be required for Stage 1 of the development, which will house the 3.5km racetrack, covered pit garages, a go-kart track and a simulated driving area. Approximately $11 million is needed for Stage 2, which is said to be focused on tourism and social activities.

Once complete, the track will underpin local motor racing activities and road safety education, whilst generating $17 million for the community. Moreover, the complex is anticipated to create around 400 jobs and potentially another 150 positions for contractors and other service providers.

CASAR Park is to be managed on a not-for profit basis.

Brad Wilson adds "CASAR Park will become the number one visitor draw card for the Central Coast and will change the economic face of the local community through tourism, sport, recreation, and social inclusion."

The site is scheduled to open in 2015 and progress can be followed on the project's own website or via Facebook.

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