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Damian Hale MP, Senator Trish Crossin and Minister for Sport and Recreation Karl Hampton have today announced that McMahon Contractors have been awarded the tender for the Hidden Valley International Dragstrip upgrade, with construction scheduled to commence next week.
Member for Solomon Damian Hale and Senator Trish Crossin said the announcement fulfils another important election commitment that was promised, and now delivered for Territorians.
The Gillard Labor Government has contributed $3 million towards the redevelopments, and the Northern Territory Government has provided a further $1.5 million.
Member for Solomon Damian Hale said the investment in the Territory’s local motor sports industry will see the Hidden Valley Dragstrip upgraded to international standards. “This is a wonderful opportunity to bring the Hidden Valley Dragstrip up to a top standard, hopefully attracting bigger meets and catering to local families and motor sport enthusiasts alike.
” The $4.5 million upgrade includes:
· Resurface the track to an international standard;
· Construct a purpose-built return road parallel to the track to enable race cars to get off the main straight and prevent damage to the race circuit;
· Upgrade safety barriers to concrete to cater for top class competition vehicles;
· Build a purpose built ''burnout pad'' in the return road to use as a skid pan for driver training and cater for young drivers;
· Upgrade and tier the two spectator mounds for better spectator safety and viewing areas;
· Install timing boards at the end of the track.
Mr Hampton said both governments are committed to putting the Territory on the national motor sports stage. “Motorsports are an integral part of Territory sporting culture; this overhaul will see us well placed to host Australian National Drag Racing Association (ANDRA) national championship events.
” Senator Trish Crossin said “Motor sports is one of the fastest growing sports in Australia – and is growing in the NT. Drag racing makes a significant investment into Darwin’s local automotive industry. This is a huge investment in the Territory’s local motor sports fans and the automotive industry”.
Work will commence on stages 1 and 2 of the project on July 5, with tenders for stages 3 and 4 to go out in coming months.
The upgrade to the Hidden Valley International Dragstrip is proof that Labor understands the need to develop Darwin’s professional drag racing scene to make sure Territorians enjoy the same world-class venues that other capital cities take for granted.
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