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All Signs Point To Improvements For Ballarat Trots

01 June 2017

The Ballarat and District Trotting Club is benefitting from a major overhaul of its track and racecourse signage thanks to a $40,000 boost supported by the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Racing Martin Pakula inspected the first stage of the surface conditioning program at Bray Raceway today, which will see about 10,000 litres of canola oil applied to the track over the next year to improve water retention.

The Government and Harness Racing Victoria provided more than $22,000 towards the project. It will help to reduce water consumption and maintain a springy surface, which is essential to preventing stress injuries in horses.

The treatments to Bray Raceway began late last month and will help to reduce water usage by up to 25 to 30 per cent. It will also help to drain rainwater from the track, reducing the number of cancellations of race meetings.

Bray Raceway is one of five race tracks across the state to be part of the project, with Tabcorp Park, Bendigo, Kilmore and Shepparton also participating.

The use of canola oil also has a range of cost saving and environmental benefits – extending the life of the track, reducing diesel usage for track watering equipment, and decreasing the amount of dust. The funding will also go towards the purchase of a pump application unit, an applicator, a trailer and storage tanks.

The Government and Club also contributed almost $18,000 towards new racecourse signage, including two new street signs and a car park sign to better advertise functions and events at Bray Raceway.

Bray Raceway is a world-class track hosting 33 meetings throughout the year, including the Group 1, $120,000 Ballarat Pacing Cup held in January.

Since 2014, the Government has provided almost $92,000 to support infrastructure upgrades and harness racing events at Bray Raceway, including almost $72,000 for four race meetings.

The racing industry in the Central Highlands generates more than $96 million annually for the Victorian economy and helps sustain more than 950 full-time equivalent jobs in the region.

Quote attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula

“We’re proud to support these upgrades, which will cut water costs, reduce fuel use and keep Bray Raceway safe and ready for major race meets.”

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight

"These upgrades to the track and updated signage will help the club remain one of the top harness racing destinations in country Victoria."

Quote attributable to Ballarat and District Trotting Club CEO Paul Rowse

“These upgrades and – in particular – the canola oil track project, will be of huge benefit throughout the 33 race meetings we host annually, and we’re incredibly grateful to the Victorian Government for its support.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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