Queensland Minister for Sport, Phil Reeves, says that the 2011 Armor All Gold Coast 600 will deliver a significant boost to the Gold Coast’s economy.
The race was officially launched today, including the names of 25 international co-drivers set to take part alongside the regular V8 Supercars stars.
With much of Queensland still recovering from last summer’s natural disasters, Reeves underlined the importance of the Surfers Paradise motorsport and music carnival to the local area.
“The Queensland Government is supporting this event through Events Queensland because it will deliver a significant economic boost to the Gold Coast and provide vital support to the local tourism industry, businesses and jobs,” said Reeves.
“Nothing says Queensland is back in business more than putting on a successful event like this – and this event can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
“To have 25 international drivers of the standard we have confirmed today is a credit to the organisers and will generate enormous interest in all corners of the world. And we still have three more surprises to come.
“The unique race and rock format was a hit last year and I think the on-track and off-track line-ups this year will ensure a fantastic 21st birthday celebration.”
V8 Supercar chairman Tony Cochrane also praised the event, which now enters its third year without an international single-seater category headlining the show.
“The event has experienced a great transformation as we head into the second year of this new international race and rock format and the response says we are doing something right,” said Cochrane.
“There is fantastic entertainment on and off the track and in these tough economic times the event not only provides an economic injection into the local economy, it gives locals the chance to relax and forget about the day-to-day grind for a few days.”
The race’s launch comes just a day after international rating agency Fitch downgraded Queensland’s economic outlook from ‘stable’ to ‘negative.’
Fitch’s report goes against the latest forecasts provided by other leading agencies such as Standard and Poor’s and Moody’s, which have both predicted Queensland to be the Australia-wide growth leader in the next 12 months.
The 2011 Armor All Gold Coast 600 will take place from October 21 to 23.
CLICK HERE for more with two of Ford Performance Racing’s international drivers.
CLICK HERE for information on the three ‘yet-to-be-confirmed’ drivers.
CLICK HERE for quotes and story from F1 driver Tonio Liuzzi.
CLICK HERE for information on the acts announced for the 600 Sounds concerts at Surfers Paradise.
