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Bass Coast Grand Prix FeverA busy weekend is expected on Bass Coast roads for the 2007 GMC Motorcycle Grand Prix on Phillip Island. By Bass Coast Shire Council - 5th October 2007 - Back to News The influx will start on Thursday 11 October. Up to 1,000 bikes will travel through the Shire as part of the Barry Sheene Memorial Ride.
Council’s Events Coordinator, Frank Angarane, said it was important to take extra care on the roads over the Grand Prix weekend.
"There will be a significant amount of traffic on the roads," said Mr Angarane.
"The big bike rides, such at the Barry Sheene and the Cranbourne ride also attract a big crowd of spectators.
"Traditionally, the traffic is very heavy when patrons leave the Circuit each day, particularly on Back Beach Road and Phillip Island Road," continued Mr Angarane.
"This year, all the car parks will be cleared using Back Beach Road, travelling towards Phillip Island Road, with the exception of Paton’s car park, which mainly services Cowes.
"While this should help clear the Circuit, it will impact on anyone travelling to and from Cowes along Phillip Island Road, at the Back Beach Road intersection," warned Mr Angarane.
"I’d advise anyone not attending the Grand Prix to avoid the area around the intersection of Phillip Island Road and Beach Beach Road on Saturday and Sunday afternoon, from around 3pm."
The blue line will be in operation on Sunday afternoon, to help clear traffic from the Island. A decision will be made on the day if the blue line is needed on Saturday afternoon as well.
Mr Angarane reminded residents that Monday traffic can also be particularly heavy.
"Many of the GP patrons stay on the Island on Sunday night, then start making their way home on Monday morning," said Mr Angarane.
Police will monitor traffic on Phillip Island Road on Monday morning and will control major intersections if required.
Wet weather could have an impact on traffic management and parking arrangements in particular.
"A staged wet weather plan has been developed and we will implement it if required," said Mr Angarane.
"Details of the plan will be put out on community and commercial radio networks if need be, depending on the conditions on the day."
Finding accommodation
Phillip Island’s Visitor Information Centres have been kept busy with calls from people looking to visit over the Grand Prix Weekend. Council’s Economic Development Manager, Peter Francis, said that the demand for accommodation had been very high.
"Accommodation across the Island is heavily booked. But if anyone does have any last minute inquiries, please contact our Visitor Information Centres on 1300 366 422."
GP Legends
Former GP greats, Mick Doohan, Daryl Beattie and Kevin Magee will be involved in a number of promotional activities across the Grand Prix weekend.
As well as taking part in the Grand Prix’s free programme for schools, they will be involved in the Barry Sheene Ride and the events taking place in Cowes on Saturday evening.
"It is really going to be a great weekend, with plenty of entertainment for all the family," said Mr Angarane.
"And I’d like to remind everyone that on Sunday evening, the Superscreen in Cowes will be replaying the big race. Even if you aren’t going to the actual race, you can still enjoy the Grand Prix spirit."
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com

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