With nearly all of the focus on the situation in western Sydney, the good progress being made around five hours west has not attracted much attention. For over two years, the Dubbo City Car Club has been working with the Dubbo City Council, and federal and state governments, to build a drag strip near the city.

With a local population of 38,000 and an additional 130,000 in surrounding areas, Dubbo is certainly capable of supporting the facility. A feasibility study carried out earlier this year showed the project will have immense social, economic and employment benefits for the region. Dubbo boasts 42 motels and a number of caravan parks, and is ideally placed to make further inroads into the tourism market.

A business plan and noise assessment have been completed, and the club is now negotiating to purchase 125 acres of land. "These things take time, but hopefully we're on the downhill run now." said DCCC Secretary Pam Walker. "We should be in a position to start construction sometime next year. In anticipation there are a number of cars being built or purchased by former and future drag racers."

ANDRA CEO Tony Thornton said he was delighted that the effort put in by the Dubbo City Car Club members in recent years was being recognised. "Drag racing provides some great opportunities for regional centres, and I'm sure the positive approach taken by the Dubbo City Council will generate a good result for the area and the sport."

For further information contact Pam Walker of the DCCC on 02-6884-3588