Queensland Government looks to back Supercars night race

A new five-year contract extension with the Queensland Government could see Gold Coast host the first night street race in the Virgin Supercars series.

With the new deal to see the Vodafone Gold Coast 600 event remain in Surfers Paradise, Queensland  and Tourism Industry Development Minister, Kate Jones, has approved the opening of discussions between Supercars management, Gold Coast City Council, local businesses and residents about plans for the 2020 event.

Minister Jones advised “by growing major events like the GC600, we’re creating tourism jobs for Gold Coasters.

“By upgrading lighting along the course, we can make the GC600 one of the most iconic motorsport events on the planet.

“Our economic modelling shows this would boost revenue by more than $25 million – cash that will go straight back to local businesses and support local jobs.

“Major events are in the Gold Coast’s DNA and the tourism industry is part of the backbone of the Gold Coast’s economy - that’s why this just makes sense.

“The GC600 is a great national event. But by racing under lights, we can tap into a new global motorsport market that could have huge benefits for tourism on the Coast.”

With next year marking the 30th running of the Gold Coast event, Supercars Chief Executive, Sean Seamer, said night racing on the Gold Coast would take it to a new level.

He advised “Premier Palaszczuk and her government share the vision of staging one of the most spectacular sporting and entertainment events ever seen in this country.

“This will elevate the Gold Coast 600 to one of the premier motorsport events in the southern hemisphere.

“It will bring thousands of additional visitors to Queensland and the Gold Coast for what will be an unbelievable event with Supercars in full flight under lights and in prime time.”

The Watpac Townsville 400 has also secured a new five-year contract in an effort to maintain a strong Supercars presence in Queensland.