TOWNSVILLE’S DriveIt facility has celebrated the opening of its latest development, with a four-kilometre stretch of paved round now connecting the multi-purpose complex with the outside world.
Since officially opening in 2023, the 305ha site has gone from strength to strength, with additional infrastructure continually added.
Following the initial installation of a skid pan area, the 12-corner, 2.75 km-long road circuit came to life and, thanks to volunteer efforts, has seen ongoing enhancements to its amenities.
In June 2024, the basis for the venue’s drag strip was completed.
Still on the drawing board is a speedway for the facility, with the possibility of hosting off-road racing, rallying, remote-controlled cars, go-karts and more.
The facility is regularly used by a range of groups on two and four wheels, including Motor Events Racing, drifting, burnouts and more.
To date, the venue has received a total of $22 million in state and federal funding, with Townsville City Council as the driving force behind the access road build.
“If you’re a motorsport enthusiast like me, you’ll be just as stoked to hear the sealed access road to DriveIt NQ is officially open,” noted Nick Dametto, the Mayor of Townsville.
“Having safe, all-weather access to the venue unlocks DriveIt’s potential to attract all vehicle types and host larger spectator events.”
“This road is about 4km worth of bitumen that totally unlocks the potential of DriveIt,” said Brady Ellis, Townsville Councillor.
“In the past, you had to dodge goats and sheep and cattle to try and get here; that’s not the case anymore.
“Whatever type of vehicle you’ve got, it’s smooth, practically a highway to pull in off the highway to get here.”
Beyond a wide range of motorsport events, the facility is also regularly used for training truck, police, and military drivers.
The 2026 NTI Townsville 500 is scheduled for 10-12 July on the downtown semi-street circuit.
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