Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray speaks against Motoring South West board decision

Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray has spoken against the decision by the Motoring South West board which has led to the future of Gazzanats WA in Collie being questioned.

On Friday event organisers announced they were reluctantly looking at alternative venues to host the event after being offered only use of the Collie Motorplex burnout pad and being asked to change the insurance provider.

On Tuesday a board spokesman issued a statement saying its decision had been made in the best interest of maintaining the Collie Motorplex.

“The decision to offer the burnout pad and to have the event held under CAMS regulations has been made collectively by the board in the best interests of the complex,” he said.

“In particular to protect the recent Government-funded track resurfacing investment of approximately $700,000.”

Mr Murray, who was responsible for attracting the money to the Motorplex both as the local member and the Minister for Sport and Recreation, said he was disappointed with the board’s stance.

“It is incredibly disappointing Motoring South West has dropped the ball on Gazzanats and are now trying to blame their poor management on others,” he said.

“Neither I nor the State Government played any role in the decision.

“The Government generously provided the Motorplex with $700,000 for the very purpose of securing events like Gazzanats.

“There are many people in Collie working hard each and every day to bring tourism and economic benefits to town.

“I ask the Motoring South West Board to get on with the job and start working positively with the other motorsports groups to deliver events such as these to Collie.”

Gazzanats WA organiser Deby Myers said she had reached out to the board on separate occasions since making the announcement and was yet to receive a response.

“We were told the board chairman (Michael Chiera)wanted to have a private meeting with us, I rang the same afternoon and have also emailed him but we are yet to hear back,” she said.

Collie shire president Sarah Stanley declined to comment.