The NSW Police Force is sending 600 officers to Mount Panorama this weekend to maintain order during the Bathurst 1000.

The costly task force will include units from the public order and riot squad, the air wing, mounted police and the dog unit. Past public disorder has included drunken rioting, cars being burnt, toilet blocks blown up, the torching of an ice cream van and pulling down security fences.

This spectator misbehaviour has stirred opponents of the State Government’s plan to stage V8 Supercar races at Sydney Olympic Park at Homebush in western Sydney.

Greens MP Lee Rhiannon said today:

Motorcar racing is traditionally sponsored by alcohol companies, like Jim Bean and XXXXGold, and drinking is part and parcel of traditional spectator behaviour.

At Mt Panorama adult race enthusiasts are “restricted” to bringing the following alcohol items into the campground every day: 24 cans of beer, 36 cans of light or mid-strength beer, 24 cans or pre-mixed drinks or one cask of wine.

Gold membership packages at Mt Panorama include a six hour beverage package including beer, wine and soft drink with a cash bar for sprits between 11am-5pm.

Considering the massive allowable alcohol intake it is no surprise police will be on high alert.