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Major Upgrade For Warrnambool’s Wannon Park

02 May 2018

Warrnambool greyhound racing is set to receive a major boost thanks to a $1.4 million joint funding package supported by the Andrews Labor Government

The Labor Government is providing $685,000 through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund to support significant infrastructure upgrades to Wannon Park, and a further $24,000 to support tonight’s 2018 Warrnambool Greyhound Cup.

The upgrades will see new air conditioning and public toilets installed in the Wannon Park function centre, along with new carpets, floor tiles and paintwork. The installation of LED lights will also save the club an estimated $2,500 annually and a new roof will replace dilapidated shade sails over the outdoor area.

A replacement judge’s tower and kennel block floor drainage will improve conditions for officials and greyhounds, along with a new irrigation system, improved lure rail, and a tractor turn pad on the back straight to reduce wear and tear to the racecourse.

The renovations start on Monday 7 May and are expected to be completed in August 2018. Sixteen race meetings will be transferred to Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong or Horsham during the works.

Tonight’s 2018 Warrnambool Greyhound Cup marks the last major race meeting to be held at the track before the works begin. The evening will be hosted by former AFL stars Daniel Hartford, Richard Champion and Brent Harvey, and race caller James Van de Maat. Julianne Bremner will also provide live music.

Greyhound Racing Victoria is providing $700,000 to support the cup and facilities upgrade. Warrnambool Greyhound Racing Club is also contributing more than $8,000 towards the race meeting, while the local Rotary Club is providing more than $2,500 of in-kind support.

Since 2014, the Labor Government has provided more than $1.2 million to support ten greyhound racing events and six infrastructure projects at Wannon Park.

The racing industry in the Western District generates more than $100 million for the Victorian economy annually, and helps sustain more than 980 full-time equivalent jobs in the region.

Quote attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula

“The Andrews Labor Government is proud to support these significant upgrades at Wannon Park because it’s a major racing facility and an important venue for the Warrnambool community.”

Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney

“Greyhound racing plays a crucial role in supporting local jobs and boosting the economy, and this funding will help the club to attract new visitors and participants to the region.”

Quote attributable to Warrnambool Greyhound Racing Club Manager Craig Monigatti

“We’d like to thank the Victorian Government for its support of these very significant improvements to our track and club facilities.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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