Premier

Safety On Track For St Arnaud Cup

24 October 2017

Jockeys and horses will be safer at the St Arnaud Cup this Saturday, thanks to a joint funding package of more than $67,000 for new plastic running rails at St Arnaud Racecourse.

The Andrews Labor Government is contributing more than $33,000 from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund towards the project, with Racing Victoria matching the Government’s contribution dollar for dollar.

Developed in Victoria, the lightweight plastic running rails significantly improve jockey and horse safety by reducing the impact of rail contacts or collisions.

The plastic running rails, which rotate out of the way upon contact, were installed at the club last week.

The St Arnaud Turf Club will also benefit from having a new horse ambulance that will service racing clubs in the Wimmera region, including Donald, Nhill and Wycheproof.

The Labor Government is contributing $10,700 from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund to the Wimmera horse ambulance, with Racing Victoria matching the contribution.

Since 2014, the Labor Government has provided almost $60,000 to support four vital infrastructure projects at St Arnaud Racecourse.

The racing industry in the Wimmera region generates more than $37 million for the Victorian economy each year and helps sustain more than 360 full-time equivalent jobs.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula

“We’re proud to support this great initiative because it improves the safety of both jockeys and horses on the racetrack.”

“The continued rollout of plastic rails at Victorian racing and training venues is vital to maintain the high safety standards expected by the racing industry.”

Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford

“I encourage families from around Victoria and interstate to visit St Arnaud, not just for the Cup, but also for the outstanding local produce and wine.”

Quotes attributable to St Arnaud Turf Club Chairman David Russ

“The club is grateful to the Victorian Government and Racing Victoria for their support of this important safety initiative.”

“We encourage everyone across the Wimmera region to come to St Arnaud for a great day of racing on St Arnaud Cup Day, made all the safer by the track’s new plastic running rails.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

Was this page helpful?