Traffic changes outside the Warrnambool Racecourse adopted this year are likely to become a permanent fixture.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The traffic measure saw Grafton Road, outside the main gates, become one way after 2pm on the days of the carnival.
The road was divided until 6pm with patrons able to be picked up from the far lane or catch taxis and buses from the lane closest to the course. Traffic leaving the Mack Oval, opposite the course, was only permitted to turn left, relieving some of the congestion outside the main gates.
Warrnambool police Sergeant Jason Dance thanked the public for their patience and said drivers collecting patrons were supportive of the changes. “It worked well,” he said.
"The patrons were really good coming out of the race track. They were really supportive and co-operative with us as we were implementing the changes. The drivers were very good, patient and they drove safely.
It worked really well and made everyone a lot safer and things more efficient as people exited the race track.”
He and Warrnambool Racing Club chief executive officer Peter Downs said it was likely to continue and there would be a series of post race meetings to discuss the traffic change and other race day measures.
“We certainly thought it was a winning formula,” Mr Downs said. “The feedback has been excellent about getting people off the course at the end of the day. We’ll do a review and see if there’s any things we can improve.”
