PREMIER Speedway has unveiled plans to build a new multi-purpose facility at its Allansford site.
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Planning permit applications have been lodged with Warrnambool City Council for a new building which, if approved, will sit atop a hill at the south-east end of the track, known as Mount Max.
Speedway general manager David Mills said the planned building would replace a marquee usually set-up on the hill ahead of the Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic each year.
Drawings lodged with the council show the Colorbond-clad building would be glass fronted with an outdoor terrace featuring fixed seating.
It also includes a large open space that can seat 180 people, a kitchen and coolroom, bar facilities and toilets.
“It’s not our intention to use it for 21st birthdays or anything like that,” he said.
“It will used on event days or for training and that type of thing. It’s not our intention for it to become a community centre. We aren’t expanding what we offer.
“The idea is to have a building there where we can just turn the key and be ready to go.
“At the moment we set up the marquee, then our volunteers have to fit it out, the club electrician has to connect the power. It all takes time.”
The club highlighted the facility on a wish list after the success of January’s three-night Classic, which attracted tourists from across the country and the United States.
Mr Mills said the room could also be used for club meetings and training days for junior drivers.
The volunteer-based club has been built by members over more than four decades, but has never had any council or government support.
Mr Mills said the estimated cost of the project is about $200,000, which would be funded by the club with in-kind support from the .
He said the club hoped to start construction as soon as possible to have the building ready for next year’s Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic on January 22, 23 and 24.
The following weekend the club will host the three-night Australian Sprintcar Title.
Last week the club announced one of the biggest seasons in its history, to feature 15 shows and add $8.5 million into the local economy.
“We may look at updating those figures throughout the course of January but I’d project something in the $8.5 million to $9 million range, being conservative,” he said.
