- Published:
- Wednesday 4 May 2022
Racing is back on track at Colac with surface upgrades to the course and a new female jockey room on the way thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula today visited the Colac Turf Club to see the upgraded track and announce funding to upgrade the female jockey room.
The Labor Government invested $89,000 through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund to improve drainage on the track, which has now been fitted with a subsurface drain and slitted with sand to allow water to drain away faster.
These upgrades also increase safety for horses and riders, and reduce the likelihood that meetings are cancelled due to wet weather.
Colac Turf Club is also set to benefit from the allocation of more than $27,000 from the Fund to upgrade the female jockey room at the Club, with renovations set to extend and modernise the existing facility.
This funding adds to the $39,000 of government support provided last year to Colac Turf club to double the capacity of the racecourse dam to 36 megalitres, and to replace the water transfer pump.
Since December 2014, the government has invested more than $238,000 to support racing infrastructure projects and thoroughbred racing events at Colac Turf Club.
The thoroughbred racing industry in regional Victoria generates more than $715 million for the economy and helps sustain more than 6,100 jobs.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“We’re ensuring race-tracks keep up with industry standards and improving wellbeing with the new change rooms.”
“Upgrades like this help to welcome more race goers while creating local jobs.”
Quote attributable to Colac Turf Club President Phil Douglas
“This upgrade will provide a safer and more consistent surface that will improve conditions for horses and riders and help to deliver an enhanced racing experience at Colac”
Quote attributable to the Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“It’s great to see investment in our local clubs, especially with upgrades to the female jockey room at Colac that will support the growing participation of women in the racing industry.”