Dr Napthine, who met with club officials in December, yesterday said he was aware of Premier Speedway’s limitations when it came to accommodating big crowds and the need for more infrastructure.

But he said the club and venue had an exciting future. He urged the club to work closely with Warrnambool City Council and the region’s group of councils, Great South Coast, in developing a facility masterplan that when completed would create more economic, social and tourism benefits.

“There is enormous potential to continue and grow speedway patronage,” Dr Napthine said.

“One of the things about speedway folk, because it is a night event and often over several days, you maximise potential for benefits, hospitality and tourism. People don’t just go in and out. There is a really strong case to be made for investment in what is a proven winner in delivering economic benefits to our region. There is a lot of potential to develop Premier Speedway. 

“This isn’t about funding for a sporting organisation. It’s not funding for a recreational facility, it’s funding investment in growing jobs and tourism.” He said the club could produce a compelling argument to the state government for funds if it focused on the broader benefits of an improved Premier Speedway.

“What we have to do is come together and look at it seriously as a business proposition and make the case for seeking government support to produce business, jobs and economic opportunities. Whether it be through tourism or the hospitality side or direct tourism and associated jobs and industry associated with speedway.

“I think you can create a real opportunity for investment to be a catalyst for further investment through the private sector.”