A PROPOSED drag racing track north of Koroit has moved a step closer to reality with plans lodged with Moyne Shire Council officers.
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They entail a dedicated national-standards track plus parking and spectator facilities on a former racecourse precinct north of Koroit.
Warrnambool and District Drag Racing Association recently submitted its vision to the shire's planning department after years of searching for a suitable alternative to the Mailors Flat airport.
Planners then suggested several adjustments before the issue is put before councillors.
Association president Tony Frost told The Standard "minor issues" noted by shire planners were being addressed and an amended application was expected to be lodged in August.
Mr Frost said the club would disclose more details after the updated version was lodged.
It comes amid uncertainty over the future of the association's long-held permit to conduct races at the regional airport.
The resumption of passenger flights earlier this year and increased national security precautions have raised safety concerns among some quarters.
Summary notes from the May meeting of Warrnambool Regional Airport Advisory Committee indicate a report will be presented to the city council soon on future events.
"Major concern of having events at the airport is the provision of adequate security and infrastructure required because we are a security-controlled airport," the report said.
"The committee reiterates its view that the airport's primary function is for aviation-related activities."
The push for a new track has built support over several years.
In 2012 Moyne Shire councillors voted to take over management duties of the former Koroit Racecourse Reserve.
The club had indicated the former racecourse was an ideal site to set up after leaving the Warrnambool Aerodrome and Moyne Shire councillors agreed a venue would reduce the amount of illegal drag racing on public roads.
At the time, councillor Colin Ryan said he had attended a number of drag racing events and had been impressed with how they were organised.
However, the council last year was split over support for the track, after $8500 was allocated for the club in the 2014-15 budget.
