Dametto says other MPs slam brakes on DriveIt

HINCHINBROOK MP Nick Dametto has fired up over Townsville leaders’ lack of action over DriveIt NQ’s proposed motorsport precinct.

Mr Dametto said Townsville’s major political party representatives had abandoned the precinct, especially ahead of the Townsville 400.

“We see politicians scram- ble to get a photo with their favourite driver, yet none will stand up and financially back the construction of a motorsport complex North Queensland badly needs,” he said.

Mr Dametto said Townsville’s three state Labor MPs had been silent on the project, as well as Dale Last, the LNP’s MP for Burdekin. The project is in Mr Last’s electorate.

“You have to ask yourself if Mr Last is serious about supporting motorsport,” Mr Dametto said.

Mr Last said his party had repeatedly called on the State Government for funding to DriveIt, with little response.

“Nick Dametto should do his homework before making baseless comments,” Mr Last said. “The LNP has fully supported it from its conception.”

DriveIt NQ director Pat Driscoll said the Federal Government had confirmed their contribution of $ 5 million for the $ 23.3 million precinct, which would be put towards the national- standard driver education component of the master plan.

“We have not been given any money from the State Government in the current budget, and that’s a disappointment,” Mr Driscoll said.