Weeks of Speed events injects thousands into shire

An estimated $370,000 to $520,000 was injected into the Gunnedah shire from events hosted during the Weeks of Speed.

The March Weeks of Speed held speed related events such as a car parade, drag races, NSW Whip Cracking competition and more.

In a recent report to Gunnedah Shire Council, the estimated economic impact for the shire was between $218,693 and $372,355 from Gunnedah Motoring Enthusiasts and $153,662 from Tamworth Drag Racing Association.

Gunnedah Shire Council approved a 50 per cent fee waiver for council facilities and equipment.

Council also covered the road closure costs of up to $5000 for the street parade.

These waivers came with a condition requiring a report from TDRA and GME of event attendance and estimated economic impact.

TDRA was involved through the Drag-ens Hot Rod Club ‘Drag Safari’ and the 1/8th Mile off-street Drag Racing.

The GME and TDRA received feedback through entrance surveys of gate visitors and entrant competitor information.

GME recorded 300 spectators for the National Meeting and 120 for the ½ mile sprint.

TDRA recorded 400 spectators during three days for the Drag Safari and 1/8th Mile Off-Street Drag Racing.

It was found that 97 per cent of competitors for the 1/8th Mile Drag Racing weekend were from outside of the 2380 postcode.

Of that number, 73 per cent stayed in Gunnedah for at least one night, 93 per cent purchased fuel and 98 per cent purchased food and drinks in Gunnedah.

Council waved $4043 for hire fees and pay for road closures.

Council also assisted with advertising the Weeks of Speed through regional television, local radio and print from its tourism budget amounting to $9637.

The amount received to council for the charges from GME and TDRA totaled to $3345.

Also aiding these reports was a letter of support written by Ray William.

“As a small business owner, and speaking with cafe and motel

owners, these events are a much-needed injection of capital with tourists and contestants visiting and staying in Gunnedah and spending in our stores and premises,” he wrote

“I urge the council to ensure that the hire fees of the venues are at a reasonable rate that would enable motorsport organisers to conduct their events during the [Gunnedah Weeks of Speed] and during other times of the year.”