Brisbane, Queensland – Heritage listed Lakeside International Raceway has suffered mindless vandalism while in the care of its new owner, Pine Rivers Shire Council. (Click here to see photos)

The desecration of Queensland's motorsport icon was first brought to the attention of the Lakeside Motor Racing Enthusiasts in September and a letter was rushed to the PRSC to bring the situation to their attention.

LMRE president Ian Milton wrote:

"I understand that vandalism has occurred recently at the Lakeside Motor Racing Complex.

 

The extent of which consists of numerous broken windows in the Media and Medical building and in the Control Tower, along with the spreading of human excrement on floors and walls.

 

I have been advised of two individuals who may be able to assist with enquiries into this despicable act.

 

I would urge you to proceed with a formal complaint to Police, where upon I would be pleased to provide details of the information I have been given, to the investigating officers."

PRSC Manager Land Development Services, Andy Opanowycz replied on 30 October, 2003 with the following letter,

"I wish to advise that the vandalism was the subject of an investigation by the Petrie Police. They have subsequently advised me (without going into detail) that several youths were interviewed and appropriate action taken."

Up until the PRSC took over Lakeside, acts of vandalism were a rarity. The facility operated nearly every day of the year and as a result had employees on-site monitoring the complex. That included weekends and major events used professional security firms when necessary. Furthermore, a caretaker lived on-site to assist with after hours security. (Click here to see photos)

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Background

Lakeside International Raceway is the world's first full permanent heritage listing of a motor racing circuit. The track has hosted some of the biggest names in international motor racing since opening in 1961. The race track was a fully operational and profitable business when the Pine Rivers Shire Council purchased the facility, but has since closed the facility to motor racing. The Council is currently appealing the heritage listing.