Lakeside Park Raceway

Gazing at this ribbon of asphalt, can you hear the echoes of roaring engines at Lakeside Park Raceway? This isn’t just a race track. It’s a living museum of Australian motorsport. Lakeside Park Raceway, nestled beside the tranquil Lake Kurwongbah, 30 km north of Brisbane, has witnessed some of the most thrilling races in Australian history. Lakeside Park Raceway first opened its gates on March 19, 1961. It was built by a dedicated group of volunteers with borrowed machinery, a testament to their passion for racing. This 2.410 km circuit quickly became the heart and soul of Queensland motorsport, hosting a variety of racing series. From the Australian Grand Prix to the Australian Touring Car Championship, the Australian Superbike Championship, and the Tasman Series, Lakeside Park Raceway has seen them all. Legends like Jim Clark, Jackie Stewart, Jack Brabham, Graham Hill, and Chris Amon have graced this track. The circuit’s challenging layout proved to be a training ground for local heroes like Dick Johnson, Will Power, and five-time 500cc Grand Prix motorcycle world champion Mick Doohan. Doohan himself once declared, “If you can learn to race a motorbike at Lakeside, you can compete at any race track in the world.” The 1981 ATCC showdown between local hero Dick Johnson and Peter Brock remains an unforgettable moment. Johnson, driving a damaged car, clinched the title in front of an ecstatic home crowd, cementing his place in Australian motorsport history. Lakeside Park Raceway also holds the distinction of hosting the Australian Grand Prix in 1966 and 1969, both races also part of the Tasman Series. The venue hosted the ATCC from 1970 to 1998. These events were often the highlight of the year. Despite its rich history, Lakeside Park Raceway faced closure in 2001 due to financial difficulties. However, thanks to the relentless efforts of various groups, including the “Friends of Lakeside,” the track was saved from demolition. It reopened in 2008 under new management, continuing its legacy as a beloved racing venue. Even today, the roar of engines fills the air at Lakeside Park Raceway. The track lives on. It’s more than just a circuit; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of motorsport.