Minister for Racing Martin Pakula officially unveiled $360,000 worth of upgrades to the Mildura harness racing track today.
The upgrades, including a new base and surface material to improve the camber of the track, were completed in December last year.
The new camber will significantly reduce the risk of leg injuries to competing horses and track fencing has also been upgraded to improve participant safety.
The Mildura harness racing track is one of the busiest in Victoria, hosting 34 race meetings each season as well as several industry trials throughout the year.
The Andrews Labor Government provided more than $180,000 towards the upgrades, courtesy of the Victorian Racing Industry Fund (VRIF).
Harness Racing Victoria and the Mildura Harness Racing Club each provided more than $90,000 towards the total project cost of $363,000.
Quotes attributable to Racing Minister Martin Pakula
“The Andrews Labor Government is proud to support country racing and it’s a pleasure to officially unveil these upgrades to the Mildura harness racing track today.”
“We are also committed to making driver and animal welfare a top priority and this refurbishment will significantly reduce the risk of leg injuries to horses, while also improving participant safety.”
Quotes attributable to Mildura Harness Racing Club President, Barry Bottams
“We are thrilled to have the Minister here to officially unveil the upgrades to our track.”
“The support we receive from the Victorian Government is critical to ensuring that we remain a major centre for regional harness racing well into the future.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020