Brisbane, Queensland – Despite unsupported accusations in the media about noise and water pollution, Pine Rivers Shire Council already knew both issues could be successfully managed and the viability of Lakeside International Raceway as a motor racing circuit was never in question.

Furthermore, Council is yet to obtain a court date to start the appeal process of the heritage listing. Lakeside Motor Racing Enthusiasts president Ian Milton said,

"Council has complained in the press about heritage listing, but they are delaying taking any action, because going to court will bring out the truth and that might be a problem for some of them as we get closer to next year's local elections."

Minutes from a PRSC's strategic and commercial services committee meeting on Tuesday, 8 October 2002 show that ASK Consulting Engineers were retained to carry out a noise and water quality assessment. The report detailed that normal motor racing vehicles created a noise problem greater than road registered vehicles, but only to 6 properties in the area. (PRSC meeting minutes MP 02/2814 - 2816) Click here to go to PRSC website

The consultants described how race car noise emissions were manageable and not as bad as some would think. They showed that race car noise emissions were only 20% more than a road car if measured at the same standard distance of 30 metres. Lakeside's racing surface is over 100 metres to the nearest residential property and more than 200 metres to the nearest main road. It is bordered by a lake on its west, a Queensland rail line with station on its east and local zoning currently restricts residential development in the area. The consultants reported,

"It should be noted that competitors have voluntarily agreed to modify the vehicles to accommodate noise reduction constraints."

"In deed, some residents have stated they purchased near the track to enjoy motor racing."

The consultants went so far as to recommend a system of noise credits similar to the one used at a club-level circuit near Canberra, which could be put in place for only $75,000 - $100,000 - far less than any court action to appeal the heritage listing.

Officer responsible for the Noise and Water Quality Assessment - Division 9, (Cr Chris Monsour's electorate) Andy Opanowycz reported that,

"Water quality issues have been investigated and the consultants have indicated that the use of three oil separators, installation, piping and minor earthworks to ensure run off from areas is directed to the appropriate oil separator will satisfy water quality requirements and for budgeting purposes an amount of $150,000 should be included."

"Contrary to some people's out-moded perceptions, motor racing is far more environmentally sensitive than everyday driving. Racing demands that vehicles be fuel efficient, even running bio-fuels such as methanol and our national competition regulations simply won't let you on the track if you're car or bike leaks any fluids," said Mr Milton.

Former general manager of Lakeside, Geoff Sakzewski said,

"The viability of Lakeside as a race track is beyond question. The circuit operated for 40 years without any government handouts, had a full calendar of events booked in advance and was running at a profit. 

 

So far, in addition to the initial $600,000, the Council has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on lawyers and studies, while losing all the tourism revenue and jobs for the Shire and then deleted two year's revenue that could've paid back the ratepayers.

 

But, the final insult to the intelligence of the people of Pine Rivers is the their temerity to blame the facility."