$350M for GP, ‘nothing’ for the Park

Last weekend, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos announced massive funding for a new pit building and improvements to the surrounding precinct, which will ‘deliver better facilities for Formula 1 fans and local clubs.’

According to the media release, ‘The upgrade will include 14 garages, race control, and a race administration and media centre. The world-renowned Paddock Club will have an expanded capacity of 5,000 patrons a day, offering amazing hospitality experiences and viewing spots along the main straight to see all the action.’

While the Minister and Government have not specified the project cost, the media have reported it as $350M. Tickets to the Paddock Club are touted at $6K per head.

Local clubs aghast at splurge while park funding is being squeezed

The significant funds for the car facilities prompted a spirited negative reaction from Hugo Armstrong, Albert Park Sports Clubs Association advocate.

‘The pit building redevelopment might be great for cars – but what about the Park?’ he told TWiSK.

‘Beyond temporary facilities for community sports clubs based in the Pit building, the Victorian Government’s massive project has not confirmed any investment in the rest of Albert Park,’ he said.

‘There’s plenty for the 4-day race and apparently nothing for the rest of the Park.

‘It has committed nothing to protect parklands and sports fields, nothing to support community use of the Park, and nothing to reduce the growing impact of the Grand Prix on Victoria’s best-known and best-loved Park.’

‘This extra $350 million spending comes on top of annual subsidies for the Grand Prix Corporation that reached $130 million last financial year. Meanwhile, Parks Victoria’s budget to manage Albert Park for the rest of the year is a paltry $4.5 million.

‘It’s completely irresponsible to pretend this much-loved and much-used parkland can host such a massive and growing event without a proper plan and confirmed funding to protect and sustain it for the thousands of club and community members who depend on Albert Park Reserve for sport, recreation, and nature,’ he concluded.

Meanwhile, at the media conference…

This question was posed to Minister Dimopoulos:
‘Is there any money for the ecology of the Albert Park Lake? Some locals have reached out, saying it’s not too great. Concrete walls are crumbling; there’s a lot of pollution in there.’

In reply, he said:
‘I’ll be speaking to Parks Victoria about doing more to make sure that this prestigious Albert Park stays prestigious. I think it is prestigious. Parks Victoria is the land manager here, and we’ll make sure that they take on board those concerns of residents.’

Yes Minister, prestige is important, but for 365 days a year, not just four.

Read the Premier’s media release