Maryville stage reintroduced

Now, the Maryville Downs Estate stage, a competitor favourite, is back on the 2014 bill for August 16 after a five-year hiatus.

The divisive event attracted much debate and approval just scraped through Shire of Chittering at the council meeting with four votes for and three against.

In recent months, the Shire gauged community opinion with a survey that reflected overwhelming support for the rally.

Stage sponsor Auscon Metals also offered a $10,000 grant towards the Maryville Downs Estate if the rally went ahead ” an enticement in response to previous complaints that the event offered no community benefits.

Shire president Robert Hawes said the long-term viability of the rally would be gauged after the event.

He said there were benefits to the shire.

‘In the first instance, presuming the event does go ahead, the Shire of Chittering will feature and be acknowledged on TV and billing of the event,’ he said.

‘The entire event lasts three hours with the set-up and pack-up so disruption will be minimal.’

The Targa West rally celebrates its 10th anniversary this year but the last time the event was held in Chittering was 2009.

Event director Bob Schrader said it was ‘awesome’ to have the Maryville Downs Estate stage on the bill again.

‘We knew there was a lot of support within the community there,’ he said.

‘The competitors love the stages in Chittering.

‘The Maryville Estate was one of the most recognisable stages in Australia. Even the likes of Jim Richards, who has had more motorsport than anybody, was quoted as saying it was one of the best stages in Australia.’

‘Obviously, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea but we’ll do everything in our power to try and ease any burden on them and ensure them it’s as safe as possible.’

This stage will be known as the Auscon Special Stage and road closure will be in place from 1.15pm to 4.15pm on August 16.