By JONATHON HOWARD
PLANS to host a series of mediation meetings between Carnell Raceway and concerned residents were approved by Southern Downs Regional councillors last Wednesday.
The mediation call was raised by Cr Jamie Mackenzie and seconded by Cr Vic Pennisi under condition that a representative speak on behalf of group submissions.
Mediation follows a long-running battle between Carnell Raceway’s board members and residents living near the track, who fear an increase in racing frequency could impact house and land values, as well as expressing concerns about sound levels.
The club had previously applied to Council for an increase of up to 40 race days from a current total of 18 individual days – which includes two show ‘n shines, two cabaret days, two practice days and 12 car racing days.
The club also applied for the provision of camping and the introduction of driver training days.
Council was asked not to approve the application but were instead provided with an alternative application to introduce limited camping and some driver training days.
Cr Jo McNelly said she did not think that any common ground could be reached through mediation with the club and residents.
“I would have liked to see the application before council approved,” she said.
Meanwhile, club representative Robert Brown said the club welcomed mediation as a way forward.
“Carnell Raceway has always been open to the idea of a compromise and we see this mediation process as a way forward,” Mr Brown said.
Mr Brown said the club were not locked into any specific number of race days, but said an increase was needed from the current 18 days.
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Issues of concern
THE Free Times contacted several residents living near Carnell Raceway and who had opposed the application.
Ian Jackson, John Cowan and John Wilson had all written to council objecting Carnell Raceway’s original application.
Mr Wilson, who lives roughly 800 metres from the track on Rifle Range Rd, said he was open to the idea of a compromise.
“I’m happy to enter mediation talks with the club through council, but there needs to be some serious changes to the way the club carries out these events,” he said.
Mr Wilson said the club needed to respect its neighbours more by informing them of when a race day was scheduled and developing a calendar of events.
When asked the ideal number of race days, Mr Wilson said it was difficult to decide.
“I think the introduction of driver training days and some camping would be ok,” he said.
“And perhaps around 20 total race days would be a more satisfactory compromise.”
Mr Cowan, who lives on Lees Mountain Road near the raceway, said he was happy to hear from all interested parties during mediation – but was against the idea of camping.
“I’m concerned about the current levels of safety and cleanliness at Carnell Raceway,” Mr Cowan said.
“I regularly see cans of fuel near camp fires and there’s a lot of garbage left behind after these race events.
“Plus toilets and camping facilities are not available at the grounds, and who will provide security at the track during camping?”
Mr Cowan said he was keen to see the track remain as it is.
“I’m interested in hearing from all parties, and I’m supportive of driver training days and perhaps a small increase but only under condition that the racing club become better neighbours.”
Mr Jackson said he shared the concerns of other residents and said to move forward Carnell Raceway would need to meet their expectations.
Mr Jackson said he would have liked to see council approve the amended application but said he was open to the idea of mediation.
“Council needs to ensure the club is operating in line with the current court order,” he said.
“My personal feeling is that the current number of race days should remain and the introduction of driver training days should be aimed at assisting younger drivers – not track racing training.”
Mr Jackson said there was also a need to seal the gravel road leading to Carnell Raceway and supported the introduction of dedicated track security.
