- Published:
- Sunday 11 September 2016
The Andrews Labor Government will develop new legislation to improve public access at Caulfield Racecourse Reserve.
A new, independent body will be appointed to manage the land for the purposes for which it was originally reserved – a racecourse with public recreation space.
The legislation will establish a transparent and modern governance model for the independent body to ensure the local community is aware of and can enjoy the public open space at the Reserve.
The site specific legislation is a recommendation of the bi-partisan working group that recently provided independent advice on the future management of the Reserve.
It will include the implementation of the recommendations from the 2014 Victorian Auditor-General's Office report into the management and oversight of the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve.
These recommendations include improving public access to the Reserve and providing additional recreational facilities.
In order for the new management model to be introduced, all current trustees of the Reserve have been asked to resign their positions.
The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) will act as interim land manager, and will maintain new signs and take immediate steps to ensure the community is aware of how and when they can currently access the Reserve.
Ms D’Ambrosio has instructed the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning to start drafting this legislation as a priority, with a view to introducing it in mid-2017.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“Adopting a modern, land management structure for Caulfield Racecourse Reserve will ensure it can continue to host some of Australia’s best racing and provide accessible open space for the local community to enjoy.”
“I’d like to thank the trustees for their work in managing the Reserve and I appreciate their support in ensuring the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve is set-up to best serve the Victorian community.”