ClubGrants Investment Delivers Major Spectator Upgrades at Illabo Motorsport Park

Tyler Disbury
Mar 20, 2022
3 min read

Hon. Wes Fang MLC, with daughter Audrey, officially opens the upgraded spectator facilities, celebrating another milestone in the continued development of Illabo Motorsport Park

On 19 March 2022, Gasworks Motorsport Inc proudly celebrated the official opening of the upgraded Spectator Area at Illabo Motorsport Park, marking the successful completion of a major infrastructure project made possible through the NSW Government's ClubGrants Category 3 Infrastructure Fund.

The official opening was attended by Hon. Wes Fang MLC, who joined Gasworks Motorsport President Phil Taber, Founder and Secretary Kerry Phelan, committee members, volunteers and supporters to celebrate the completion of the $125,000 project.

As part of the ceremony, Mr Fang officially opened the facility with a ribbon cutting, assisted by one of the day's youngest guests, Audrey, highlighting the family-friendly nature of the venue and the important role community facilities play in regional NSW.

The project has transformed the spectator experience at Illabo Motorsport Park, significantly improving accessibility, comfort, safety and capacity while creating a valuable community asset that can be shared throughout Junee Shire.

The official opening ceremony attracted volunteers, supporters and local community members celebrating the completion of the project

A Significant Investment in Regional Community Infrastructure

Funding from the NSW Government enabled Gasworks Motorsport to deliver a comprehensive range of improvements including:

Doubling the size of the spectator viewing area
Installation of new safety barriers and spectator fencing
Acquisition of a refurbished 180-seat portable grandstand, with four integrated wheelchair-accessible spaces in the front row
Expanded shade coverage over the spectator area
A new public address system
Electrical, drainage and plumbing improvements
Modern EFTPOS terminals and point-of-sale systems to reduce cash handling and improve event operations

Importantly, the portable grandstand is designed as a shared community asset. It can be transported throughout Junee Shire for use at local sporting events, festivals, agricultural shows, school activities and community celebrations, extending the benefits of the funding well beyond motorsport.

Future racer Atticus Fang enjoys a close-up look at one of Gasworks Motorsport's vintage speedway karts

Creating an Inclusive Motorsport Experience

Accessibility was a key focus throughout the project.

The modified grandstand incorporates four wheelchair spaces positioned in the front row, ensuring patrons with mobility challenges can enjoy events alongside family and friends rather than being separated from the main audience.

Combined with improved safety fencing, expanded viewing areas and better public address coverage, the upgrades have created a safer, more comfortable and more inclusive environment for all visitors.

Hon. Wes Fang MLC gets behind the wheel at Illabo Motorsport Park's official opening

Supporting Regional Tourism

The expanded spectator facilities also position Illabo Motorsport Park to host larger events and additional Speedway Australia categories, attracting competitors, officials and spectators from across New South Wales and interstate.

More visitors means increased overnight stays, greater spending at local businesses and stronger economic outcomes for Junee Shire.

Gasworks Motorsport anticipates the improvements will support continued growth in Vintage Speedway, Junior Speedway Karting and community motorsport events for many years to come.

Hon. Wes Fang MLC joins committee members before the official opening ceremony at Illabo Motorsport Park

Thank You

Gasworks Motorsport sincerely thanks the NSW Government and the ClubGrants Category 3 Infrastructure Fund for recognising the value of community-led regional infrastructure projects.

This project is a testament to what can be achieved when government investment is matched by the passion and commitment of local volunteers. Gasworks Motorsport sincerely thanks every committee member, volunteer, sponsor and supporter who contributed to the planning and delivery of the upgraded Spectator Viewing Area, ensuring Illabo Motorsport Park continues to grow as one of regional New South Wales' premier community motorsport venues.

The official opening marks not only the completion of a significant infrastructure project, but another important step in cementing Illabo Motorsport Park's reputation as the Heart of Australian Vintage Speedway and one of regional New South Wales' premier community motorsport facilities.