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Wakefield Park Raceway NSW is 25 years old


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#1 TerryS

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Posted 29 October 2019 - 23:09

I know that is not long by UK standards, but it is for Australian
 
Attached some great photos of the first meeting at the circuit.
 
An incredible variety of cars

https://hsrca.com/20...wakefield-park/

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#2 GMACKIE

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Posted 30 October 2019 - 09:01

When Paul Samuels asked if I would take Sir Jack Brabham around for the 'official opening lap', he didn't have to wait long for an answer...

 

Some here will recognise John Cummins (Cummo) beside the car.

 

20191006-095401-001.jpg

20191006-094849.jpg


Edited by GMACKIE, 30 October 2019 - 18:33.


#3 GreenMachine

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Posted 23 July 2022 - 10:55

But will it see 30?

 

I haven't seen anything here about the troubles facing WP, summed up in one word - noise.

 

Yes, I know and you know that it is 20 or 25 kms out of town, but that is the basis of the problem, with a LEC decision handing WP a solid kick between the big toes.

 

LEC decision: https://www.caselaw....06171a28fc91ce5

 

https://www.speedcaf...ld-park-future/

 

https://www.speedcaf...r-court-ruling/

 

https://www.speedcaf...ircuits-future/

 

The ruling appears draconian. but is probably a reflection of the original 1993 DA approval conditions, which are, effectively, still operational - at least until the LEC ruling takes effect, notwithstanding that the events originally programmed at WP 1n 1993 bear no resemblance to today's programming.



#4 Catalina Park

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Posted 23 July 2022 - 11:39

Wakefield Park is 9km out of town not 20 or 25.
I live in Goulburn and I can tell what cars are on the track by the sound they make. It's not offensive but I can hear it. 

The current owners of Wakefield Park are the problem. They have an attitude of doing things their way or else. They have managed to convince people that this council that hosts two racing circuits, a speedway and a newly built motocross track are anti-motorsport. 
The BAC refused to negotiate with the council just like they have refused to negotiate with residents in the past. The BAC took this to the court and it backfired on them severely. 
Now they have to negotiate. 

Some of the neighbours have been there for generations, this is not a case of people moving next to tracks and complaining about noise. Some of these people gave their blessing for the track to open with the 1993 DA conditions and they have been let down badly by track operators that seem to think 300 days of noise a year just aren't enough.
 



#5 Catalina Park

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Posted 23 July 2022 - 12:42

For those that think the courts always come out in favour of the residents regarding noise complaints should look at the Land and Environment Court case between the residents and the Goulburn Motorcycle Club for the new motocross track. 



#6 GreenMachine

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Posted 23 July 2022 - 13:02

Yes CP, you are right, it is certainly not 20-25k - I have made that Goulburn-WP trip often enough to know that!  Call it brain fade!

 

I think the problem pre-dates BAC ownership, successive owners seem to have thought the DA conditions were just a piece of paper that could be ignored.  BAC picked that up and ran with it, straight into the LEC brick wall.  Big mistake to think the LEC would see the overriding wisdom of BAC's case, almost as big a mistake as buying a business where the business case rests on ignoring DA conditions.  They might have got approval for their improvements, but the money from track rentals/events just dried up so I guess the improvements are on hold until that can be sorted.

 

Supposedly 'talks' are being held with the council, it will be interesting to see whether they go anywhere.  BAC must have a fair investment in the circuit, there have been improvements to garaging and hardstandings, you would think they would be motivated to find a workable solution quickly, we'll see I guess.



#7 Catalina Park

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Posted 23 July 2022 - 13:19

The BAC needs a shake up. Get rid of whoever thought taking this to the court was a good idea. It was a real genius move.
Likewise they need to stop their social media campaigns that bully the council and residents. They launched their facebook attack campaign before the council had even voted on the DA. Giving out the contact details of the council members so they get death threats from bogans is a really good way to build relationships.



#8 GMACKIE

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Posted 24 July 2022 - 02:36

I'm sure Paul Samuels would never have allowed it to get to this stage. Some people are just no good at handling such situations.

 

Steve Shelley has the right idea...



#9 Ray Bell

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Posted 25 July 2022 - 14:49

Originally posted by GMACKIE
.....Steve Shelley has the right idea...


Can you explain that for us please, Greg?

Regarding Michael's comments about the BAC, it's interesting that Garry Willmington got out very soon after they took over.

#10 Catalina Park

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Posted 26 July 2022 - 05:41

Ray, do you remember when the BAC told Benalla Council that they were going to shut Winton and move to Hume Weir? I think it was about 1983 or 84. The motorsport comic books ran stories showing work being done at the Weir, like removing the dividing wall to replace it (never completed of course) 

Garry Wilmington was busy building his own little track at Marulan when the BAC took over, he was probably ready to leave.
Interesting that Marulan was built as a 'driver training centre' and not a racing circuit. Garry submitted a DA to upgrade it to be able to run as a 'racing circuit' but withdrew the DA. Garry has since sold the circuit. The new owner has expanded and improved it. I'm not sure if the DA has ever been updated. So if the Goulburn council really did hate car racing...



#11 Ray Bell

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Posted 26 July 2022 - 06:51

No, Michael, I don't recall that at all...

 

As for the enterprise of Garry Willmington, he always surprised with what he could achieve.



#12 Lee Nicolle

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Posted 26 July 2022 - 09:04

Wakefield Park is 9km out of town not 20 or 25.
I live in Goulburn and I can tell what cars are on the track by the sound they make. It's not offensive but I can hear it. 

The current owners of Wakefield Park are the problem. They have an attitude of doing things their way or else. They have managed to convince people that this council that hosts two racing circuits, a speedway and a newly built motocross track are anti-motorsport. 
The BAC refused to negotiate with the council just like they have refused to negotiate with residents in the past. The BAC took this to the court and it backfired on them severely. 
Now they have to negotiate. 

Some of the neighbours have been there for generations, this is not a case of people moving next to tracks and complaining about noise. Some of these people gave their blessing for the track to open with the 1993 DA conditions and they have been let down badly by track operators that seem to think 300 days of noise a year just aren't enough.
 

I live about 7km as the crow flies from the Adelaide Dog and Pony show aka the Taxpayer 500. And I have been able to hear the event from my place. In the house. ASs well as the total shitfight with traffic for 3 months.

So if I make a complaint will the EPA shut them down??  Probably not. And yes about a million people are in hearing range. And are effected by the traffic as well.

So while you make a very good point there is one rule for one venue and another for a Govt sponsored one. Though the noise inc fighter jets flying way too low is only for 4 days. And no I will not be there. 

Neither will I be at Tailem Bend this weekend as it is way too expensive and my only real direct involvement is with GpN at sparrows fart Sunday



#13 GreenMachine

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Posted 06 June 2023 - 09:47

Wakefield Bookface page has this presser from the new owners:

 

 

Wakefield Park Raceway Secures Future with Acquisition by Pheasant Wood Circuit Owners
Goulburn, NSW – June 6, 2023
We are thrilled to announce the successful acquisition of Wakefield Park Raceway, a beloved motorsport facility in Goulburn, NSW, by the owners of nearby Pheasant Wood Circuit. This momentous development marks a significant milestone in securing the future of Wakefield Park Raceway and fostering a collaborative and respectful relationship with our neighbours.
 
 
In the wake of its closure in September 2022, Wakefield Park Raceway faced a period of uncertainty. Recognising the vital role Wakefield Park plays in the motorsport and local Goulburn Mulwaree community, we made the decision to invest in its future, guided by our shared love for the sport. We are humbled by the opportunity to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of this facility, commonly known as "the nations spectator's circuit".
 
With the ownership transition now complete, our immediate focus is on restoring the circuit and its facilities. We understand the concerns expressed by residents and the council regarding noise levels, and we are committed to addressing these issues in close collaboration with all stakeholders. Our aim is to find practical solutions that respect the needs and aspirations of the local community and motorsport fraternity while ensuring the continued operation of Wakefield Park Raceway.
 
While there is work ahead of us, we are eagerly looking forward to commencing the necessary repairs and renovations, with the goal of reopening the circuit on a limited scale later this year. Our vision extends beyond that, as we aspire to host substantive events in 2024, delivering exciting experiences for motorsport enthusiasts.
 
We express our sincere gratitude to the people of Goulburn for their unwavering support and enthusiasm throughout this process. Your faith in Wakefield Park Raceway has been instrumental in making this acquisition possible. We are dedicated to working hand in hand with our neighbours, in a spirit of unity, mutual respect and collaboration as we navigate the path ahead.
To keep you updated on the latest developments and future plans, we will soon introduce a mailing list. By subscribing, you will receive regular updates on our progress, upcoming events, and other exciting announcements pertaining to Wakefield Park Raceway's transformation.
As owners of both Pheasant Wood Circuit and Wakefield Park Raceway, we will ensure that this iconic circuit remains a treasured destination for motorsport enthusiasts.
 
Steve Shelley
Owner
 
About Wakefield Park Raceway:
Wakefield Park Raceway is a beloved motorsport facility located in Goulburn, NSW. Renowned for its challenging track and extensive facilities, it has long been cherished by racing enthusiasts and professional drivers alike. Under the ownership of the team behind Pheasant Wood Circuit, Wakefield Park Raceway is poised for an exciting future, fostering a close and respectful relationship with the community.
 
:clap:  :clap:  :up:
 
Bring on the next chapter ....