Minister for Racing Martin Pakula today unveiled a $1 million upgrade of Ballarat Turf Club’s race day stalls as part of a major program of works supported by the Andrews Labor Government.
The 120 state-of-the-art stalls took less than three months to build after the old tie-up stalls were demolished in November last year.
The rejuvenation, which significantly improves public and owner views of the stalls, also includes a new exercise yard and veterinary block at the western end of the precinct.
Racegoers will also find it easier to access the racecourse, with a road leading patrons directly to a new ticket box.
The Government contributed $521,000 towards the revamp, courtesy of the Victorian Racing Industry Fund, with Racing Victoria providing $350,000 and the club tipping in $175,000.
The upgrade forms part of a major refurbishment plan, with further works worth more than $333,000 set to take place in the coming weeks.
A $310,000 jointly funded upgrade of the club’s on-site security and storage facilities will ward off thieves and protect equipment from the elements.
The project will include a new CCTV security system, motion detectors and flood-lighting, as well as a new storage shed to safely house machinery.
The installation of a new jointly funded automatic watering system valued at $23,000 will also allow the grounds to be irrigated overnight, significantly reducing evaporation and electricity usage.
The upgrade will ensure that racegoers can enjoy lush green lawns all year round while also saving the club around $12,500 in costs per year.
Quotes attributable to Racing Minister Martin Pakula
“We’re proud to support racing in regional Victoria, which is why we are also contributing to the cost of upgrading the club’s security and watering systems, cementing Dowling Forest track as one of the best country racing venues in the state.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Buninyong Geoff Howard
“Racehorses and their handlers deserve spacious, comfortable stalls on race day and these upgrades ensure that the Ballarat Turf Club will continue to attract the very best that racing has to offer with its modern state-of-the-art facilities.”
Quotes attributable to Ballarat Turf Club Chief Executive Lachlan McKenzie
"We're thrilled with the support that this project has received from the Victorian Government. The new race day horse stalls are a fantastic addition to the racing facilities at Ballarat Turf Club and the feedback from trainers and their staff has been outstanding.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020