Police on the scene. Image: InSyde Media
Officials were stood down and track action paused, impacting Aussie Racing Car, Touring Car Masters and GR Cup sessions.
Police and security onsite were believed to have been searching an area near Turns 9 and 10, which backs onto a train line.
Spectators were ushered away from that area and the nearby access gate temporarily shut.
Officials were given the all-clear to resume track action with the GR Cup just prior to 10am.
Supercars confirmed the incident via a statement.
“Supercars can confirm that local authorities responded to a police incident this morning near the NTI Townsville 500 event precinct,” it read.
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“A suspicious package was located outside the Reid Park venue and was managed by Queensland Police as a precautionary measure.
“Following an assessment, police have declared the area safe for event activities to resume.
“On-track sessions have continued under a slightly amended schedule.
“Supercars appreciates the swift response of emergency services and thanks fans and stakeholders for their understanding.”
Police at the Reid Park Street Circuit during the Townsville 500. Image: InSyde Media
Supercars practice was delayed by 20 minutes from its originally scheduled 10:35am start time.
Qualifying has meanwhile been pushed back by 10 minutes to 12:55pm, while the afternoon’s race remains at 4:15pm.