Cash revving up Collie economy

Premier Mark McGowan says upgrades to the Collie Motorplex will prove to be a tourism drawcard for the South West.

Mr McGowan and Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray toured the complex on Friday and announced $314,000 in funding to bring the facility up to Australian standards.

Mr McGowan said the funding followed almost $3 million spent in 2017 and would create opportunities for major sporting events in the region.

“I have actually driven on this track before and it is great to come back and see how the money has been spent,” he said.

“People in Collie are really happy with the extension of the track.

“It’s great for motorsport enthusiasts, great for local business and great for Collie.”

Mr Murray said Collie businesses see a boost in trade every time there is an event held locally.

“Even this weekend we are talking about 100 bikes coming down here and I would say a quarter of them will stay in hotels and motels in the town,” he said.

“Not only that, when they come down from Perth they have to fill up their tanks to get back so we will take every pie and pastie they buy.

“We are even talking about people even coming up from Busselton and Bunbury, they are day-trippers, but they still spend money and create jobs.”

Mr Murray said the upgrades included spectator and competitor facilities.

“The Collie Motorplex is now at a level where our town is in the mix for national events which would provide a huge boost in attracting tourists to Collie,” he said.

“Already last month, the Gazzanats event was held at the Collie Motorplex and attracted 3000 people, including entrants, buddies and spectators.

“That’s a huge event for our town with motorsport enthusiasts travelling from all over the State to attend, so it’s a win for everyone involved.”