The Australian Grand Prix will be a twilight race that opens the Formula 1 season for the foreseeable future but there are some changes in the pipeline.
Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) chief Andrew Westacott has no plans to give up the coveted position as season opener and says the 4.10pm (AEDT) race start time works well with global television audiences.
But the actual track has its detractors.
There's no complaints with the aesthetics of the picturesque lakeside circuit but it presents drivers with few overtaking opportunities, which can adversely affect the spectacle for fans.
Formula 1 is doing its part to modify the cars and the rules to encourage more contested racing and the AGPC are investigating tweaks they can make to the circuit.
"We never sit still so we've got to evolve our track," Westacott said.
"It's going to need a resurface in the next few years anyway.
"It's actually 24-years-old and never been resurfaced so if we're going to resurface it let's work with Formula 1 with their simulators and track analysis and see if there are some things that we can evolve.
"There's a lake there, there are ovals there and buildings, so we're talking about subtle adjustments that can improve the racing.
"It might be tweaking some of the turns, it might be the width of some of them.
"It might be the entry angles or the camber."
Former F1 star Mark Webber, who is on the AGPC board, will assist with the project.
As for the timing of the race, its spot on the calendar and it's ongoing tenure at the Albert Park circuit, Westacott has a blunt message for envious countries or states closer to home.
"As far as I'm concerned that's its permanent spot," he said.
"We've got a contract that says that we're the first race and that runs until 2023.
"We have a really strong partnership with Formula 1.
"I'm looking forward to continuing the dialogue to make sure that it stays in Melbourne ... my view is it's certainly not going to go across the border into New South Wales."
