09 Feb 2016 Mildura Midweek, Mildura VIC (General News) UPGRADES to Victorias premier regional raceway have officially been launched by the State Government and the Benalla Auto Club. Improvements to the Winton Motor Raceway track are expected to increase the value of tourism to the Benalla economy by $10 million annually, from $35 million to $45 million. Patronage of the raceway is expected to increase by up to 40 per cent within five years. With the upgrade complete, Winton Motor Raceway has retained its Confederation of Australian Motor Sports licence and is positioned to meet the standards of the Federation Internationale De lAutomobile and the Australian Auto Sport alliance. The State Government partnered with Benalla Auto Club to deliver the project, which will enable Winton Motor Raceway to host the V8 Supercars in May and attract a range of major events such as the Porsche Carrera Cup and Australian Superbikes. During the construction phase, the project will inject more than $3 million into the local economy. The Winton Motor Raceway is now set to become Victorias premier regional racing venue, Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said. This will generate a significant income boost for Benalla and contribute to the ongoing visitor economy in the region. Advocates of a proposed motorsport precinct in Mildura have said the development would attract millions of dollars to the Sunraysia region through tourism. A business case is set to be released to the public by Mildura Council in June. Copyright Agency licensed copy (www.copyright.com.au)