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Improving Infrastructure For Hamilton Racing Codes

13 June 2018

The Andrews Labor Government is improving thoroughbred and harness racing in Hamilton with infrastructure upgrades and event funding.

Minister for Racing Martin Pakula today visited the Hamilton Racing Club to unveil the newly constructed thoroughbred mounting yard, and announce funding for audiovisual upgrades to support the 2018 Hamilton Cup.

The mounting yard has been reconfigured to improve the movement of horses and extended to allow safer viewing of horses. The building works created eight local jobs during construction and were completed in April.

The Labor Government is providing more than $78,000 towards five initiatives from its Victorian Racing Industry Fund, as part of the $156,000 joint funding project.

Racing Victoria and Country Racing Victoria are providing almost $37,000 towards three projects at the Hamilton Racing Club, the club is contributing more than $21,000, and locals are providing $1000 towards the cup.

Harness racing is also benefitting from two projects, including a recently extended head-on camera tower and public amenities upgrade at the Hamilton Harness Racecourse.

The existing head-on camera tower was extended to improve vision of the home straight and assist stewards with race day deliberations.

Harness Racing Victoria is contributing more than $15,000 towards the two projects at the Hamilton Harness Racing Club and the club is providing almost $3800.

Since 2014, the Labor Government has provided more than $310,000 for 12 infrastructure projects and five racing events at Hamilton.

Quote attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula

“Hamilton boasts some of the best country thoroughbred and harness racing in Victoria, and this investment will help the two codes thrive for years to come.”

Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford

“Racing in the Western District generates more than $100 million and helps sustain hundreds of local jobs – which is why we’re proud to be investing in both racing codes at Hamilton.”

Quote attributable to Hamilton Racing Club President Helen Sobey

“This major upgrade of our mounting yard and audiovisual facilities would not be possible without the support we receive from the Victorian Government and we’re grateful for ongoing support.”

Quote attributable to Hamilton Harness Racing Club CEO Chrissy Hawker

“We thank the Victorian Government for helping upgrade our head-on camera tower and public disability amenities at the Hamilton Harness Racecourse, to improve the experience for people attending the trots.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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