It has been nearly three years since the roar of V8 engines last echoed through the streets of Newcastle, with the physical remnants of the Supercars race slowly fading from the city's east end. The future of top-tier motorsport in the Hunter region, however, remains a topic of keen discussion and speculation.
The Legacy of the Newcastle 500
Reflecting on the event, Supercars Chief Executive James Warburton, who returned to the role in May this year after a previous stint from 2013 to 2017, offered high praise. He described the Newcastle 500 as having become "one of the most spectacular events in Australian sport" in a short period. "Our fans, drivers and teams loved it," Mr Warburton stated, underscoring the event's popularity within the sport.
The race arrived in Newcastle on an initial five-year agreement. Events ran successfully in 2017, 2018, and 2019, before the global pandemic forced a cancellation and delayed its comeback until 2023. Despite the economic injection—averaging $36 million annually into the Hunter economy—a council-commissioned survey later revealed a majority of Newcastle residents opposed extending the deal for another five years. After negotiations, the City of Newcastle ultimately declined a subsequent one-year offer.
Searching for a New Hunter Home
With the Newcastle chapter closed, attention has turned to where Supercars might go next in regional New South Wales. Mr Warburton confirmed the organisation is working with Destination NSW to find a replacement circuit. "We are looking closely at several options in regional NSW, to ignite another world-class street circuit experience," he said, highlighting the economic and promotional benefits the series aims to deliver.
Maitland councillor and avid Supercars fan Mitchell Griffin expressed his disappointment at Newcastle's decision. He credited the Newcastle event for showcasing the Hunter's beaches, cityscape, and harbour, and for providing valuable contract work for local businesses, including those in Maitland. While he would welcome a race in Maitland, Cr Griffin conceded the likelihood is "extremely low" due to a lack of suitable infrastructure and iconic backdrops.
Regional Councils Weigh In
The Newcastle Herald contacted several local councils to gauge interest in hosting a future event. The City of Newcastle reaffirmed its position, pointing to a 2023 council resolution that noted the conclusion of its relationship with Supercars and expressed support for Cessnock City Council's proposed 'Wine Country 500' as an alternative major event.
A spokesperson for Cessnock City Council said the area remains "open to providing venues for major events," contingent on grant funding and sponsorship. They also acknowledged awareness of a Supercars Australia proposal with Destination NSW. Meanwhile, Lake Macquarie and Port Stephens councils confirmed they have not expressed interest in hosting.
One private venue that could enter the conversation is the newly opened Circuit Italia in Port Stephens. General Manager Damien White confirmed the circuit is suitable for most forms of motor racing and, while no substantive talks with Supercars have occurred, the venue is open to the possibility. He also noted there are "many other opportunities" in motorsport beyond the Supercars championship.
As the search continues, the question lingers: will the Hunter region once again host the spectacle and thunder of a Supercars street race, or has the checkered flag fallen on the era for good?
