The Andrews Labor Government is investing in a new synthetic race track at Ballarat’s Dowling Forest Racecourse to ensure Ballarat remains one of Victoria’s premier racing and training venues.
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula was in Ballarat today to announce a $4 million investment from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund towards the synthetic track. This is part of a $10 million joint funding package with Racing Victoria.
The new all-weather track will reduce stress on the turf track with works expected to start in the coming weeks, and is due for completion in May 2019. The track will complement an existing synthetic track at Pakenham.
The Labor Government is investing $20,000 to upgrade the jockey’s room at the Ballarat Turf Club, which will include new furniture, scales and flooring. The club is contributing $12,000 towards the jockey’s room and Racing Victoria is also contributing $12,000.
Labor is also investing $29,000 towards the Ballarat Cup, which will feature a day of entertainment in late November, including a range of live acts and DJs and a new precinct known as the Yard will feature food trucks and drinks from the Sam Miranda Spritz Bar.
The club is contributing more than $40,000 to the race day, while Country Racing Victoria is providing more than $16,000.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has provided almost $5.5 million for 10 infrastructure projects and 18 racing events at Ballarat’s Dowling Forest Racecourse.
The racing industry in the Central Highlands generates more than $96 million for the Victorian economy annually and helps sustain more than 950 full-time equivalent jobs in the region.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“This major investment in a new synthetic track will ensure Ballarat remains one of Victoria’s leading racing and training centres.”
“The government is getting on and delivering a new all-weather synthetic track to reduce stress on the turf track, especially during winter months, and provide even greater certainty for the racing industry.”
Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight
“The Ballarat Cup is a great day out for our community and we’re investing in the event to make sure it’s one to remember.”
Quote attributable to Ballarat Turf Club Chief Executive Officer Lachlan McKenzie
“We’d like to thank the Victorian Government for this significant investment in a key piece of infrastructure for Ballarat, and we look forward to welcoming racegoers from around the state for the Ballarat Cup.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020