The Wangaratta Turf Club is set to benefit from a $1.4 million joint funding package, supported by the Andrews Labor Government.
The Labor Government is contributing almost $720,000 from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund to support the 2018 Wangaratta Racing, Food and Wine Carnival, and to upgrade the sand training track at the racecourse.
The sand training track upgrade will see the existing track extensively reconstructed with a new foundation, improved drainage, a new automatic irrigation system, and new sand surface.
The upgrade will provide trainers with a consistent surface that can operate in all weather conditions, while the automatic irrigation system will provide water savings of around $5,000 every year.
The funding will also go towards supporting the Wangaratta Racing, Food and Wine Carnival in 2018. The carnival will kick off with a ladies twilight race meeting on Saturday 3 March, followed by an all-day race meeting on Sunday 4 March showcasing the Wangaratta Cup and the VOBIS Gold Eldorado feature races.
Eleven local award-winning wineries, along with local food vendors and produce providers, will be at the carnival, celebrating the food and wine of the Ovens-Murray region. Other family entertainment will include a petting zoo, water slide, jumping castle, pony rides, a carousel, a roving musician and sports activities.
Country Racing Victoria is providing $10,000 towards the carnival, and the club is contributing almost $324,000 towards the carnival and the infrastructure upgrade. Racing Victoria is also providing $387,500 for the upgrade.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has contributed almost $3 million to support eight infrastructure projects and nine race day events at Wangaratta, including $1.5 million for stage two of the Wangaratta Racecourse Reserve master plan. The plan will see Wangaratta become a regional centre for racing, training, and equine education.
The racing industry in the Ovens-Murray region generates more than $39 million for the Victorian economy annually and helps sustain more than 380 full-time equivalent jobs locally.
Quote attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“Country racing is an important economic driver in Victoria and employs thousands of people. That’s why we’re thrilled to be supporting the Wangaratta Racing, Food and Wine Carnival and upgrading the sand training track.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“The Wangaratta Racing, Food and Wine Carnival provides north east Victoria with a marquee two-day racing carnival that’s sure to attract visitors to the region, and I wish the club every success with this great event.”
Quote attributable to Wangaratta Turf Club CEO Paul Hoysted
“We are grateful to the Victorian Government for its generous support of the club, and this major infrastructure upgrade will contribute significantly to our aim of making Wangaratta a regional racing centre of excellence.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020