- Published:
- Friday 23 February 2024
Racegoers and trainers at Wangaratta Turf Club will benefit from new facilities to safeguard animal welfare and meet the demand for year-round training facilities thanks to significant investment from the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines visited the Club today to announce the completion of the new $1.1 million sand training track which has been backed by a $550,000 investment from the Government’s Victorian Racing Industry Fund, with the other half coming from Racing Victoria and the Wangaratta Turf Club.
This project includes a new 1500 metre railed sandtrack designed for year round use - providing the best possible racing and training conditions to improve horse welfare for the 135 horses and 35 trainers currently based at the track.
The new low-maintenance track will also be easier for the club to maintain and manage throughout the year.
The project began in October 2023 and was completed this month. The new sand track includes new running rails as well as an improved drainage system with upgraded pumps and filters.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has provided more than $4 million to support racing events and infrastructure projects at the Wangaratta Turf Club.
The thoroughbred racing industry generates $3.43 billion for the Victorian economy and helps sustain 25,705 full-time equivalent jobs.
Quote attributable to Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines
“These upgrades support a strong and sustainable thoroughbred racing industry that will continue to entertain racegoers, protect animals, support thousands of metro and regional jobs and boost Victoria’s economy.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“Our ongoing delivery of major infrastructure for the Wangaratta Turf Club is helping to support the club’s growth now and well into the future.”
Quote attributable to CEO of the Wangaratta Turf Club Sean Barrett
“We thank the Victorian Government for its important investment to upgrade the inside sandtrack training facilities to improve safety for riders and horses. We know this upgrade will be of significant benefit to trainers, ensuring year-round use of the track and enhancing animal and participant welfare.”