Ministerial media release
Major upgrade gives green light for Gil Speedway racing
Motor racing will roar back to life at Gilgandra Speedway from the October long weekend following a major upgrade funded by the Minns Labor Government to replace the track’s guardwall and safety fence.
Crown Lands provided Gilgandra Shire Council with a $525,154 grant from its Crown Reserves lmprovement Fund for safety upgrades to ensure ‘Gil Speedway’ can host local, regional, state and national racing events.
Racing had stalled after a safety inspection revealed the need for urgent upgrades to the track wall, safety catch fence, and pit gate to allow the speedway to meet current racing standards.
Parts of the original track wall — installed 34 years ago when the speedway first opened in 1991 — had slumped, exposing steel connectors and creating uneven surfaces and a potential risk to vehicles.
A new concrete barrier wall has been installed around the 426-metre clay racetrack topped by a new safety ‘catch fence’ to protect spectators, together with a pit gate upgrade, to allow for the resumption of racing.
Local race meetings attract an average of 80 drivers, 40 volunteers and 350 race patrons injecting spending into the local economy while providing an exciting venue for locals to gather and socialise.
The return of racing will be celebrated on the October long weekend with about 180 cars competing across 9 divisions, from national and state divisions to crash and bash, wingless sprints, V8s, and junior races from 10 years old.
Minister for Lands and Property and Sport Steve Kamper said:
“The Minns Labor Government is focused on building better communities, and this funding and upgrade perfectly illustrates how we can improve Crown reserves to bolster communities, sporting organisations, and recreation and business.”
“The grant from Crown Lands has breathed new life into Gil Speedway and allows Gilgandra District Racing Club to welcome back drivers and fans with confidence – a win for motorsport and regional NSW.”
NSW Upper House MLC Stephen Lawrence said:
“The Gilgandra Speedway is a local institution in the Central West that hosts a range of events, from Australian race titles to demolition derbies, trash and treasure ‘boot’ markets, fun day car rallies, show and shines, junior driver training programs, weddings and birthdays, and more.
“The speedway is a cornerstone of community spirit and this upgrade ensures it will continue to be a place where families, fans and volunteers come together to create lasting memories.”
Gilgandra Shire Council Mayor Doug Batten said:
“The enthusiasm and hard work of the Gilgandra Speedway Committee is to be commended. The successful delivery of a new cement track wall has created a 5-star speedway venue, one of only a handful across the nation, making Gilgandra Speedway a true showcase for drivers.
“Council is proud to have partnered with the Gilgandra Speedway Committee on this important project. It adds to the vibrancy of our region, and we look forward to celebrating their season opener on the October long weekend.”
Member for Barwon Roy Butler said:
“It’s fantastic to see Gil Speedway go from a track in crisis to a venue ready for national-level events with its upgraded safety wall.
“Gil Speedway is part of Gilgandra’s identity, there are many passionate enthusiasts who will benefit from these upgrades. I thank the NSW Government and Gilgandra Shire Council for this investment to ensure it remains a safe, vibrant hub for racing, fundraising and community connection.”
“I look forward to seeing increased numbers of racers and spectators driving money into the local economy, I can’t wait to get to a race!”
Gilgandra Speedway Secretary and life member Louise Harland said:
“The significant funding for the speedway upgrade is amazing for the town as it means Gil Speedway goes from a 3 star to one of the first 5-star tracks in NSW outside of Eastern Creek, allowing us to host major events that will bring visitors and dollars into our region.
“The not-for-profit Gilgandra District Racing Club gives back by supporting community groups and hosting charity events and fundraisers, such as for the Gilgandra and District Cancer Council.”