Sydney Motorsport Park has taken the first step to becoming the first permanent motorsport facility in Australia with permanent lighting.
The Eastern Creek circuit will see 132 light towers permanently installed, making it one of the premier tracks in the Southern Hemisphere due to the ability to host both day and night events.
Part of the New South Wales Government’s latest $33M initiative to boost the Western Sydney facility, just under half of the funding has been budgeted for the lighting project, which could be completed when the current COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
A Centre of Excellence, which Motorsport Australia will use to find the next generation of motorsport stars, is also set to be built at the circuit in the near future.
With representatives from Supercars, Australian Racing Drivers’ Club and the NSW government, including Deputy Premier John Barilaro, all present to witness the installation of the first tower, Barilaro was proud to see the multi-million dollar strategy turned into reality.
“It’s a new era of racing and the 2020 Lighting Project at the Western Sydney Motorsport Precinct couldn’t have come at a better time,” Barilaro said.
“We know that COVID-19 is taking its toll on this state, and racing can be a real morale boost for those isolating at home, so it will be fantastic when motor racing gets back on track.”
The lighting project will have 132 light towers with 864 individual light fittings placed around the four circuits and training Skidpan at the circuit, as well as utilising the latest LED Technology from world leaders in floodlighting systems, MUSCO Lighting.
The project will also create 100 jobs and boost the local economy within tourism, investment and development.
The SMSP Lighting Project details
$16.4 million Government investment
132 light towers, including 864 individual light fittings.
Lighting all four variations of the circuit, plus paddock and skid pan.
Power is 800LUX main Brabham Straight, with a minimum of 400LUX on the rest of the circuit. Temporary lights seen in the inaugural Sydney SuperNight in 2019 had temporary generator-powered lights capable of 150LUX.
Ability to light individual parts of the track and precinct, plus change the colour of the lighting on the main straight.
Over 100 jobs created and maintained through COVID-19, plus local manufacturing support.
Technology: Lighting the smaller Druitt North Circuit five years ago quoted at $17 million, now entire circuit and precinct for $16.4 million with fibre optic connection.
Projected 40% increase in access capacity.