Tolmer Speedway in Bordertown, South Australia, has completed a $3 million-plus upgrade, transforming it into a state-of-the-art facility for major speedway events.
The redevelopment, supported by the Tatiara District Council, South Australian Government, Tolmer Speedway Club, and local and state business contributions, has comprehensively overhauled the track to secure its status as a premier venue for national events for years to come.
In particular, the redevelopment included the removal of the old track, widening and reshaping of the new track, installation of a new wall and catch fence, and enhancements to underground services, switchboards, signal lights, and track lighting.
Critical to the upgrade was the installation of an advanced lighting system, provided by Australian sports lighting manufacturer VAILO.
The company delivered a custom-designed LED lighting solution for the track, featuring 56 Zenith Gen V fittings mounted on 14 outer and two inner track poles.
The system achieves an impressive average of over 600 horizontal lux and includes DMX-controlled technology, enabling dimming and programmable light-show functionality through Bluebottle’s programming.
Patrick Merrett, director of Bordertown Pumps and Refrigeration, praised the new lighting as the most advanced in the country.
“VAILO has set the standard for speedway lighting in Australia, providing the latest technology to ensure optimal visibility for participants and spectators,” Merrett said.
He also highlighted the DMX control as a “game-changer” for the Australian speedway scene, enhancing the event experience.
Aaron Hickmann, CEO and founder of VAILO, underscored the importance of this project amid the growing popularity of speedway in Australia.
“Speedway is huge in the USA, and as a sports lighting company, we’ve seen increasing interest in speedway here in Australia over the past year,” Hickmann said.
The track upgrade was a community effort, involving local volunteers, businesses, and high school students who contributed to the construction of the new wall during their school holidays.
Merrett emphasised the upgrade’s positive impact on the South East region, noting that it will bring together local and speedway communities, attract tourism, and boost the local economy.
Tolmer Speedway is set to host its first major event on Friday, December 27, as part of the Sprintcar Speedweek.
For more information about Tolmer Speedway, click here. To view the new track and its lighting program, click here.
