Motoring hub’s off to top start
TOWNSVILLE’S l ong awaited motorsport precinct is finally taking shape with buildings installed at the site.
Driveit NQ has completed the first stage of its development at Calcium, building a 12x6 training room and bathroom block as part of its new Driver Education and Motorsport Precinct.
The precinct will provide a safe environment for an array of motor sports and educational activities when it is completed.
The initial works provided a number of apprentices with work.
First year Ausco schoolbased apprentice carpenter Elisabeth Matters said the construction experience gave her valuable insight into the industry.
“It was exciting because I am only a first year but they allowed me to be on the site and participate,” she said.
“I did a little bit of everything – I helped with plumbing, I did some measurements and I cut things and I helped build the ground pads.”
Driveit NQ’S chief executive officer, Pat Driscoll, said the new facility was all about enhancing the local community.
“The thing about the whole project is that we are maximising the value to the Townsville economy and to be able to provide opportunities for young people is a real bonus,” he said.
The multipurpose firstclass $25 million motorsport project will transform the land into a motor sports training and events hub.
The next stage will get underway soon on the 1.4km central access road and the 2.4ha driver manoeuvring pad.
However, until $12 million is secured through funding the final stage of the project remains in limbo. The final stage includes a speedway, a drag strip and a 3.5km track.
Chairman Greg Fitzgerald said the completion of the first stage was an achievement.
“We are absolutely over the moon that we have commenced the project with the building of the classrooms by a local employer, Ausco,” he said. “We know that included in stage one of the Driver Education and Motorsports Precinct is an important milestone and piece of infrastructure which will help us deliver essential driver education lifesaving outcomes in North Queensland.”
The classrooms will be used for emergency services training, defence training, heavy vehicle and rollover recovery programs.
They are expected to be functional by the middle of the year. and