- Published:
- Thursday 5 May 2016
Warrnambool racing is set to receive a major infrastructure investment worth almost $400,000 thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula announced the funding at the Warrnambool’s May Racing Carnival today.
The funding boost will see $320,000 spent on significant works to improve water drainage on Brierly Paddock to improve jockey and equine safety.
The overhaul will see the existing paddock excavated, the base newly compacted and the top soil increased by a further 2.5 centimetres. Free draining sand will also be added to the soil mix to aid with water run-off.
A further $70,000 will be invested in a new equine swimming pool to ensure that Warrnambool remains a leading training destination in the Western District.
The new pool will be 70 metres long, three metres deep and designed with special sloping walls to ensure the safe entry and exit of horses.
The pool will allow the 50 local trainers to swim their 250 horses at any time of the day. Currently trainers are restricted to swimming their horses at the local beach for limited periods.
The Labor Government is providing $195,000 towards the new infrastructure, courtesy of the Victorian Racing Industry Fund.
Racing Victoria is contributing more than $177,000, with the Warrnambool Racing Club providing almost $18,000.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“The Andrews Labor Government is proud to invest in racing at Warrnambool to ensure it remains a leading hub for training in the state’s Western District.”
“This funding will equip Warrnambool with some of the best training and track facilities available and will secure its place as a top racing destination.”
Quotes attributable to the Warrnambool Racing Club CEO, Peter Downs
“We are thrilled to receive this support from the Victorian Government, which will increase our ability to attract the best trainers and horses to our racecourse.”