Wanneroo Raceway

Nestled in the northern suburbs of Perth, MotorMall Wanneroo Raceway stands as Western Australia's only permanent motorsport facility. The circuit sits approximately 50 kilometers north of Perth's central business district in the suburb of Neerabup. Racing enthusiasts know this track for its challenging layout, unique surface conditions, and significant place in Australian motorsport history. The 2.411-kilometer circuit combines fast straights with technical corners across varied terrain, creating a venue that tests both driver skill and mechanical setup. Strong winds frequently blow sand across the racing line, affecting grip levels and making the surface particularly harsh on tires.

Historical Development

Wanneroo Raceway opened on March 2, 1969, as Wanneroo Park. The Western Australian Sporting Car Club developed and continues to operate the facility. The circuit received a name change in 1992 to Barbagallo Raceway after businessman Alf Barbagallo provided funding for a short circuit addition. In 2020, the track returned to its original Wanneroo Raceway name. The circuit then operated as CARCO.com.au Raceway from August 2022 to November 2025 under a naming rights agreement. Since December 2025, the facility has been known as MotorMall Wanneroo Raceway. Local residents in Neerabup still commonly refer to it as Barbagallo Raceway. Major facility upgrades occurred in 1979 with new pits and paddock areas, and in 2011 with a complete redevelopment including a new pit facility in the circuit center connected by a bridge, improved lighting, and enhanced safety barriers.

Technical Specifications and Track Configurations

The main circuit measures 2.411 kilometers (1.498 miles) with 7 distinct turns. The FIA classifies it as a Grade 3 permanent racing facility. The circuit underwent complete resurfacing in early 2019. A short circuit configuration exists, measuring 1.760 kilometers. This layout was introduced in 1992 and links Turn 5 to the back straight, enabling truck racing and night events. Following safety concerns and fatalities that led to a motorcycle racing ban in late 2016, a motorcycle-only chicane was added at Turn 3 in January 2017. After further safety improvements, motorcycle racing returned in March 2019. This dedicated bike circuit measures 2.413 kilometers with 9 turns and features specific safety modifications for two-wheeled competition.

Racing Heritage and Current Events

Wanneroo boasts a rich racing history, having hosted the Australian Grand Prix in 1979, won by Johnnie Walker. The Australian Touring Car Championship (now Supercars Championship) has held events at the circuit since 1973, with brief gaps from 1974-1977 and in 2010. The circuit reached a significant milestone in 2025 by hosting its 100th Supercars/ATCC race. The track hosts national-level competitions including the Supercars Championship, along with WA State Championships for Superbikes, Supersport, and Sidecars. The facility also caters to drift racing, track days for car and motorcycle enthusiasts, and various club-level racing events.

Perth Super 440 and Future Outlook

The Perth Super 440 represents the circuit's premier Supercars Championship event, attracting over 50,000 attendees to this three-day sporting spectacle. The 2026 event runs from July 31 to August 2 and features two 120km sprint races plus a 200km endurance-style refueling race. However, 2027 will mark the final year for Supercars at Wanneroo, as the championship relocates to a new street circuit at Perth Park in Burswood from 2028. Despite this change, the State Government has confirmed that Wanneroo Raceway will remain an important venue for local clubs, competitors, and motorsport enthusiasts, with recent minor upgrades costing over $340,000.

Master Plan Development

A master plan published in 2019 proposed substantial expansion and upgrades, including a new 4.27km FIA-grade circuit inspired by The Bend Motorsport Park, with multiple configuration options, and a 750m section for informal drag racing. This development, estimated to cost over $225 million, aims to increase Perth's international motorsport reputation. However, funding has not yet been secured, and practical completion was projected for 2029. The City of Wanneroo continues to advocate for state government support for this ambitious expansion plan.