V8 Supercar Threat to
Sydney Olympic Park

The NSW Government has given 'in principle' support to the holding of V8 Supercar races at Sydney Olympic Park, but is rapidly proceeding to a decision.

Sydney Olympic Park has been a showcase of environmental restoration and sustainability. The environmental initiatives and restoration of Sydney Olympic Park has been internationally recognised. If approved the race would make a mockery of the environmental legacy of Sydney's green Olympic Games.

 Environmental problems include:

 removal of up to 700 trees to accommodate development of the street motor racing circuit;

 create significant noise and air pollution impacts;

 create the potential for contamination of parklands waterways and habitat (including Green and Golden Bell Frog habitat) from spills of fuel and oil;

 disturbance to native fauna from noise impacts and crowd movements;

 major impact on urban amenity and public open space

 decreased residential access.

 Parking congestion.

The proposed race has been considered by the Sydney Olympic Park Authority (SOPA) Board and rejected unanimously. The Government is now seeking to override the SOPA Board.

This type of event can more appropriately be accommodated at Sydney's Eastern Creek Raceway which is purpose built for motor racing and already the site of V8 Supercar races.  It obviously needs an upgrade anyway and there is speculation about a Formula 1 Event being hosted in Sydney.

The race would jeopardise millions of dollars of existing and future investment at Olympic Park and result in long term economic damage. Development of the commercial and residential precincts at Olympic Park depends on maintaining the clean, green marketing edge.

The proponents, V8 Supercars Australia, also want a $30 million subsidy from taxpayer's funds. Economic assessment of similar races in the ACT has shown significant negative economic results.

If you wish to voice your opposition to this proposal, send your views to

Mr Nathan Rees,
GPO Box 5341,
SYDNEY NSW 2001

Email:thepremier@www.nsw.gov.au