Premier

Major Upgrade For Geelong Racecourse

25 October 2017

Geelong thoroughbred racing is set to receive a $1 million funding injection for two major infrastructure projects and the 2017 Geelong Cup, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Racing Martin Pakula attended the Cup today to announce the Labor Government is delivering more than $435,000 through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund towards a sand training track upgrade and a new desalination system.

The sand training track refurbishment will provide trainers with a quality track that includes the installation of an automatic irrigation system, improved drainage and a consistent surface.

The new desalination system will enable safe irrigation of the racecourse by treating the venue’s salty bore water and reducing the need for the club to purchase potable town water during times of low rainfall.

The system will ensure a constant supply of high quality water for track irrigation and be capable of feeding 18,000 litres of water per hour.

Racing Victoria is also contributing more than $304,000 towards the infrastructure projects and the Geelong Racing Club is providing more than $130,000.

The package also includes a $48,000 Government boost to support key race day attractions at the 2017 Geelong Cup, with the club also contributing $101,000 and Country Racing Victoria providing $12,000.

Trackside highlights this year include live music, roaming entertainers and former Geelong Cats AFL star Billy Brownless as the host of the Trackside Pavilion.

Since December 2014, the Labor Government has provided more than $1.18 million to support thoroughbred racing at Geelong, including more than $808,000 for nine infrastructure projects and almost $375,000 for seven race meetings.

The racing industry in the Barwon region generates more than $106 million annually for the Victorian economy and helps sustain more than 1,050 full-time equivalent jobs.

Quote attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula

“The Geelong Cup has established itself as an essential race meeting in the lead up to the Melbourne Cup, particularly for international horses, and we’re proud to be supporting the event for a second consecutive year.”

Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens

“The sand training track upgrade and new desalination unit at Geelong Racecourse will ensure the Geelong Racing Club remains a world class racing and training venue for years to come.”

Quote attributable to Geelong Racing Club CEO Daniel Salter

“We are incredibly grateful for the Victorian Government’s support for our vital new infrastructure projects.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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