The popular South-East Queensland regional track had recently received government funding for some extensive upgrades including expanding the venue to the full quarter mile racing distance.
The $1.9M funding provided by the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments will cover the extension of the dragstrip to a 1/4 mile, and the extension of the existing braking area and return road, a holding loop, construction of pit lanes, and upgrade of the staging area to national level, timing boards, new timing system and installation of a new grandstand for spectators, amongst other spectator and racer friendly venue improvements.
The upgrades unfortunately had since been delayed due to COVID outbreaks and lockdowns, as well as poor weather forcing the contractors to wait until the grounds dry out before commencing earthworks.
The good news is that works have now started, and the first step is the laying of fresh concrete for the first 1/8th mile of the track. Following this will be 800m of asphalt to complete the brand new racing surface.
“We would like to thank Mayor Vic Pennisi, CEO Dave Burgess and the whole of Southern Downs Regional Council. To our club volunteers that have been helping with the progress. We will keep you all updated on our next Working Bee,” said Matthew Loy on the Warwick Dragway Facebook group, where you can follow the progress of the upgrades.
The venue will still stay true to its 1/8th mile roots with their popular Dragfest and Six Banger Nats remaining to be run over the short track, but they can now expand their repertoire by adding full quarter mile racing events in the future.
