The state will lose the major motorcycle championships to South Australia, with MotoGP to race on the streets of Adelaide in 2027 and WorldSBK headed to Tailem Bend in 2028.
Destination Phillip Island said it was “deeply disappointed” to lose WorldSBK after last week’s announcement that The Bend would take the reins.
The tourism group said there would be a significant impact to accommodation providers, hospitality businesses, retailers, tourism operators and local jobs.
Destination Phillip Island said there needed to be an “urgent economic transition strategy” in the wake of the two-pronged exit.
Kim Story, the tourism group’s CEO, called on the Victorian Government to repurpose funding from MotoGP and WorldSBK into destination infrastructure, major event attraction, and tourism development.
She cited the Summerland Peninsula, popular Penguin Parade, and The Nobbies as particular focal points.
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Destination Phillip Island chair Jeff Webb said it was not simply a case of replacing MotoGP or WorldSBK with another motorsport event.
Supercars has expressed its interest in returning to Phillip Island, with a potential Finals Series slot.
“The issue is no longer the loss of two events. The issue is what Victoria does next,” said Webb.
“Phillip Island already has world-class tourism assets generating hundreds of millions of dollars for the State.
“The opportunity now is to invest in those assets and build a stronger, year-round visitor economy.”
Bass Coast Mayor Cr Brett Tessari labelled the loss of MotoGP and WorldSBK from the island a “devastating blow” to the community.
“My heart goes out to our local businesses, tourism operators, volunteers and community members who have supported these events for decades and who rely on the visitors they bring to our region each year,” said Tessari.
“These events are part of Phillip Island’s identity and a major driver of jobs, investment and economic activity.
“Bass Coast Shire Council has been advocating strongly to the Victorian Government since the loss of MotoGP was announced and that advocacy will only intensify.
“We have been clear that the economic impacts on Phillip Island and Bass Coast cannot be ignored and that a genuine plan is needed to support our region.
“We are calling on the Victorian Government to urgently work with Council, industry and local stakeholders to deliver meaningful investment and secure new opportunities that will replace the significant economic benefits these events have provided for decades.
“Victorian ministers have indicated they are pursuing a new major event for Phillip Island, and we expect that commitment to translate into tangible outcomes for our community.
“Phillip Island has earned an international reputation as a world-class destination. Our community should not be left to carry the burden of these losses alone.
“We will continue to advocate firmly and relentlessly to ensure Bass Coast receives the support, investment and long-term opportunities it deserves.”
MotoGP will make its final sojourn to Phillip Island on October 23-25.
The final WorldSBK event at Phillip Island will take place on February 19-21.
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