Mount Panorama election promise
By Thomas Miles
Date posted: 10 April 2025
The iconic Mount Panorama circuit has become part of the election build up with the Coalition Government promising a $14.9 million upgrade if elected.
Leader of The Nationals, David Littleproud, Nationals candidate for Calare, Sam Farraway, plus Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Senator Bridget McKenzie announced the promise at Mount Panorama on April 10 as next month’s election creeps closer.
If a Liberal Government is elected, the $14.9 million upgrade will be poured into the home of Bathurst’s Great Race.
The upgrades will focus on improving the iconic 6.219km track itself led by a full circuit resurfacing, plus replacements of kerbs and improvements to tyre barriers, communication, electrical and civil infrastructure.
The announcement from the Liberal Government comes almost a year after the Bathurst Regional Council allocated a $10 million upgrade to Mount Panorama as part of a 2024/25 draft budget which was dependent on a grant application.
The last time Mount Panorama was resurfaced was 2014 ahead of one of the most dramatic Great Races ever where the surface infamously broke up at Griffins Bend.
Farraway said the upgrade will improve numerous aspects of the circuit’s safety.
“This $14.9 million investment will enable Bathurst Regional Council to carry out essential works, including circuit resurfacing, kerb replacements, tyre barrier upgrades, and critical improvements to communications, electrical, and civil infrastructure,” Farraway said.
“The Central West deserves to be in the driver’s seat when it comes to infrastructure investment, and today we’re proving that the Coalition is ready to put the rubber to the road.”
The announcement took place at Mount Panorama’s pit entry. Image: Supplied
Littleproud said the Mount Panorama circuit is still a massive focal point of the area and the upgrade is timely.
“Mount Panorama is steeped in history, with racing events dating back to the 1930s and the iconic Bathurst 1000 drawing fans since the 1960s,” he said.
“Each year, thousands of spectators travel from across Australia and overseas to experience the Mountain, making it a key driver of tourism and economic activity.
“This investment will ensure the precinct’s infrastructure meets modern standards, allowing the Bathurst 1000 and other major events to continue thriving.”
McKenzie said such a famous circuit deserves such an investment.
“A world-class racing venue needs world-class infrastructure, and that requires serious investment—something the Coalition is delivering,” Senator McKenzie said.
“Unlike the Albanese Labor Government, which has turned its back on regional Australia, we are standing firmly with the Central West, ensuring it gets the support it deserves.”
The 2025 National Election will take place on Saturday, May 3.
Main image: Peter Norton Epic Sports Photography
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