BURNOUT smoke and the noise of roaring engines have prompted renewed calls for the annual Mount Gambier Autofest to be relocated despite thousands of motoring fans descending on the city showgrounds at the weekend for the event.
A thrilling event for enthusiasts, but a nuisance for some neighbouring residents, the event again caused a stir in the Blue Lake city.
Held at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds for the past 10 years, the popular three-day event sparked debate after smoke blanketed the city’s east due to burn-out competitions.
Living near the showgrounds, resident Kevin Lacey was disgusted with the amount of fumes that drifted across his home over the weekend.
He said he was all for the event and the economic benefits it brings to the city, but it would be much safer for the public if it was situated outside the city at the Borderline Speedway, McNamara Park or the Coonawarra airstrip.
“If I were to rev a car engine and create smoke to that extent in my driveway, I would have a visit from the police and be told to cease doing so immediately,” he said.
“Think about all of the people with breathing problems and lung conditions, it is not good for their health breathing in those fumes.
“It is also a traffic hazard with smoke on the road at the traffic lights of Pick Avenue and Jubilee Highway.”
But fellow Mount Gambier resident Janine McKinnon said the economic benefits outweighed the negativity put forward by others.
“There was no dust or loud burnout noises from the Autofest and I live on the railway side of the showgrounds,” she said.
“It’s only once a year and hopefully brings revenue to Mount Gambier, so it is a win-win situation.”
Seeing a total of 6000 people through the gates over the course of the event this year, Autofest Australia operations manager Les Adams said the event was a success and a change of location was not being considered.
“Numbers were down significantly on Sunday, however we believe this is because of the warmer weather,” he said.
“People come from far and wide to attend the event and we have received only one complaint about the fumes so far this year.
“We always have great support from local businesses and the community and are not considering changing the venue.”
Providing financial support in the form of $5000 cash this year, Mount Gambier City Council chief executive officer Mark McShane said future support from the council will as always be reviewed in the next budget.
“Council supports a range of large and smaller events in the community that assist economic development,” he said.
“Autofest is one of the medium sized events and does bring many benefits being in the heart of the city.
“We only receive a handful of complaints each year, however we will review the evaluation report and discuss the location following this.”
Upset by the council’s decision to support the event, Mr Lacey said he will not give his support to any of the current members or Mayor Andrew Lee in the upcoming election.
“Instead of paying my council rates in full this year, I will be paying them quarterly in protest – the council can wait for my money,” he said.
