The cancellation of the supercars event is expected to lead to a staggering $36 million loss for local businesses in Newcastle, along with significant ramifications for neighboring regions, resulting in the loss of numerous direct and indirect jobs. The decision, driven by a contentious move from Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, was grounded in a flawed survey.
As per the report, an exceptionally high participation rate of 90% from the population of Newcastle’s East End in the survey indicates the likelihood of multiple submissions. Furthermore, the exclusion of approximately 2000 responses due to double-dipping raises concerns about serious flaws and potential manipulation during the survey process, underscoring the orchestrated effort to manipulate survey results and raising doubts about the decision-making integrity.
Quoted in 2021, Newcastle’s Lord Mayor Nelms stated, “Major events in Newcastle, be they motor racing, music festivals or world-class surfing, are here by design, not by chance.” However, as of 2023, Mayor Nelms seems to be steering the city towards decline, succumbing to the pressure of a vocal minority that orchestrated a successful campaign to distort the survey results. The mayor’s duty is to make tough decisions for the greater good of the city, rather than yielding to undue influence.
Additionally, a smaller-scale telephone survey conducted by a third party reached out to 490 individuals, with 55% of the respondents expressing support for the event. Considering the online survey garnered over 10,000 responses, with only 37% in favor of the race, and acknowledging the possibility of double-dipping, it is crucial to question the authenticity of the survey results. The potential presence of double votes that circumvented the system further diminishes the credibility of the survey.