23 Dec 2015 Benalla Ensign, Benalla VIC (General News) by Libby Price Benalla has received a significant economic boost with a $4.5 million upgrade to the Winton Motor Raceway track. Work has already begun on resurfacing the track, which is due for completion by the first race meeting next year on February 7. Announcing the state government contribution of $1 million, Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said the project was expected to inject $3.35 million into the local economy and create more than 25 jobs. Once operational, the government investment will contribute to the creation of well over 50 jobs and an estimated increase in patronage of up to 40 per cent within five years, resulting in a $10 million per annum increase in tourism for the Benalla region, Ms Symes said. The project will consist of major upgrades and safety improvements, including a full resurface of the 3 km venue, to bring it in line with the latest Federation Internationale DeLAutomobile (FIA), Confederation of Australian Motor Sports Ltd (CAMS), Motorcycling Australia(MC) and Australian Auto Sport Alliance (AASA) standards. This investment and track upgrade will ensure that Winton Motor Raceway remains country Victorias premier race venue and continues to host international events, such as the V8 Supercars Championship and Australian Superbikes Championship, Ms Symes said. Benalla Auto Club Group chief executive officer Chris LewisWilliams said the upgrades to Winton were critical in ensuring the continuation of major events at the venue. The upgrades we will be conducting will include a full resurface of the track, using some of the most highly-regarded engineers and technology in the field, Mr Lewis-Williams said. The resurface works are not a cheap exercise, but they are vital to ensure we can continue to hold major national race meetings, such as the V8 Supercars Championship. One of the best things about the project is that the benefits will also be enjoyed by all the other patrons who use Winton, including those who race in the state and club-level race meetings that have been the foundation of the Benalla Auto Club for so many years. Caption Text: Thrilled: Winton Motor Raceway chief executive officer Chris Lewis-Williams, Benalla Auto Club president Barry Stilo, Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes and Winton Motor Raceway operations manager Wayne Williams. Copyright Agency licensed copy (www.copyright.com.au