Townsville’s iconic street circuit is set to be resurfaced for the first time in more than a decade, with contractors to begin resealing more than 2 kilometres of the track just after the city’s 18th NTI Townsville 500.
The project to reseal the 2.08 kilometres of the 2.86-kilometre track will be delivered thanks to $6 million in Queensland Government funding through the Works for Queensland program, ensuring the circuit remains in top condition for one of the region’s most significant annual events.
Mayor Nick Dametto said maintaining a high-quality racing surface was pivotal to securing the future of the Supercars event in Townsville and reinforcing the city’s reputation as the events capital of Northern Australia.
“Events like the NTI Townsville 500 are dependent on world-class infrastructure and ongoing investment,” Cr Dametto said.
“This reseal ensures our street circuit continues to meet the highest standards, helping us attract and retain one of the biggest motorsport events in the country.”
An independent engineering report commissioned by Council outlined the Reid Park circuit pavement was in a state of deterioration and recommended resurfacing.
“Our track has been assessed by engineers, and it’s been quite some time since it has been resealed, so some sections are fairly well worn and ready for some love,” he said.
“While we know the street circuit layout is loved by drivers, this project is about ensuring the infrastructure is maintained and the structure of the track itself isn’t compromised, so a simple reseal doesn’t end up turning into a whole road reconstruction that could cost in the tens of millions.”
Councillor Dametto said the project highlighted how targeted infrastructure investment could directly support economic growth through major events.
“By keeping this circuit race-ready, we’re not just maintaining a road – we’re backing jobs, tourism and business confidence across the city.”
Member for Townsville Adam Baillie MP said the Works for Queensland program was delivering practical upgrades that strengthened regional communities while supporting major events.
“The NTI Townsville 500 is a cornerstone event for the region, and this funding ensures the infrastructure behind it keeps pace,” Mr Baillie said.
“Investing in projects like this helps secure Townsville’s place on the national events calendar while delivering lasting benefits for residents.
“We’re supporting Townsville City Council with funding to carry out this maintenance as we work to secure the future of the Townsville NTI 500 and ensure the Reid Park circuit can handle many more years of racing action.”
Supercars Executive Chairman, Barclay Nettlefold said Supercars supported the decision to progress the required asphalt maintenance works program.
“The venue is one of the best maintained and presented racing circuits in the country and has produced great racing and viewing for over 2 million fans since its debut in 2009,” Mr Nettlefold said.
“The continued venue maintenance plans will ensure the track is race ready to host top level motorsport for many years to come.”
Works will begin on Monday 20 July and are expected to be completed in October – well ahead of the 2027 event, ensuring the circuit is ready to welcome drivers, teams and fans for another high-octane weekend of racing.
While most resealing works will occur within the closed race circuit, temporary road closures will be required in the coming months – the first beginning on Monday 20 July with the outbound lane of Charters Towers Road between Ingham Road and Boundary Street set to be impacted for around 10 days.
The Reid Park Circuit Resurfacing Works has been funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland program.
