Sport
16 June, 2023
No camping at Premier
PREMIER Speedway has this week announced it will be enforcing a strict ‘no camping’ policy from the start of the 2023/24 season.
Despite signs stating camping is not permitted on the grounds, there has been a rapid increase in the number of patrons camping in the car parks in recent years, particularly during the ‘Classic’.
More than 100 caravans and campers were set up between the Allansford and Warrnambool side car parks during this year’s Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic – a scene that organisers say will not be repeated.
A survey (undertaken after the 2023 Classic) highlighted the frustrations of many patrons over the amount of room caravans and campers took, limiting parking spaces on the Allansford side of the track.
The Premier Speedway board assembled a working group to investigate the various options available and recently met to discuss findings and, subsequently, decided not to allow campers and caravans of any type into the grounds.
“While we understand some patrons may be inconvenienced with this decision, it has been made with the best interests in mind to ensure a safe environment for patrons and our volunteers,” Premier Speedway club president Richard Parkinson said.
“The events are run by a loyal group of volunteers whose focus must remain on executing successful events.”
Camping at Premier Speedway is against council’s Local Laws which state ‘no owner or occupier of private land may, without a permit, place or permit the placement of more than one caravan on that land for the purposes of providing accommodation.’
During recent discussions with the club, Warrnambool mayor Debbie Arnott said the council supported the decision by Premier Speedway to now allow camping on its site.
The policy will become effectively immediately.
