Exit Wounds...

The Bathurst Regional Council is planning an additional event after the 2025 Repco Bathurst 1000 to help alleviate traffic congestion expected from the closure of the Great Western Highway’s Victoria Pass until 2027. This highway is a key route for travelers from Sydney to Bathurst, handling local traffic and tourists during major events.

The council is concerned about the mass exodus of racegoers on the Monday after the Bathurst 1000. This annual event draws large crowds, and the sudden departure of thousands can cause significant congestion, affecting both attendees and local residents and businesses reliant on smooth traffic flow.

The Bathurst Regional Council is considering options for an additional event to encourage visitors to stay longer after the race. This post-event attraction aims to ease road congestion and improve experiences for visitors and locals. Possible activities include live entertainment, food festivals, and community events highlighting Bathurst's unique culture and heritage.

The council is considering collaborating with local businesses and tourism operators to create packages that encourage extended stays, such as discounted accommodations, special dining experiences, or guided tours. These initiatives aim to boost the local economy and manage traffic effectively. The Bathurst Regional Council seeks to ensure the Bathurst 1000's legacy benefits the community beyond the event while addressing highway closure challenges.

Bathurst Deputy Mayor Ben Fry leads a new initiative to enhance the experience at Mount Panorama racing circuit. Currently in its early stages, the initiative explores options like organizing a post-race concert with popular artists and increasing track activity to enrich the post-race atmosphere. The goal is to create a festive environment that encourages attendees to stay longer.

This initiative aims to encourage attendees to extend their stay by a day or two, reducing traffic congestion as crowds leave. This enhances the visitor experience and boosts local businesses through increased patronage at hotels, restaurants, and shops in the Bathurst region. Deputy Mayor Fry plans to propose this idea to the New South Wales Government and engage with Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison, to seek state funding. This support is crucial for the event's success and sustainability.

The Bathurst council is collaborating with the state government and Supercars to develop a communication strategy to promote the event and inform attendees about new offerings. By combining resources, the initiative aims to attract more visitors and enhance community spirit around Bathurst's racing culture.