Thoroughbred and harness racing facilities in Swan Hill are set for a $500,000 boost, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.
The Swan Hill Jockey Club and the Swan Hill Trotting Club will share in almost half a million dollars in upgrades to ensure Swan Hill remains a top-class venue for thoroughbred and harness racing now and into the future.
A new dust suppression watering system, with pop-up sprinklers and control system providing consistent watering to the sand training track will be installed at the Swan Hill Jockey Club.
The club will also receive upgrades to the course proper and the purchase of a heavy-duty aerator that will re-compact the soil to create a safer surface for racing and training.
The Labor Government will provide $127,000 towards the $255,000 project, courtesy of the Victorian Racing Industry Fund (VRIF).
The jockey club will also provide more than $78,000 towards the upgrades, while Racing Victoria and Country Racing Victoria are combining to contribute the remaining $49,000.
Swan Hill Trotting Club will also benefit from $239,000 in upgrades, with a new tractor, track lighting generator and fencing and signage.
The Government is providing $119,000 in VRIF funding towards the upgrades, while Harness Racing Victoria contributes a further $113,000. The trotting club will provide the remaining $7000.
The racing industry in the Mallee region generates more than $58 million for the Victorian economy and helps sustain over 570 full-time equivalent jobs locally.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“Country racing is a major employer and great tourist attraction for our regional centres and towns and the government is pleased to be able to invest in its future.”
“These upgrades will ensure that Swan Hill remains a top-class venue for thoroughbred and harness racing now and into the future.”
Quotes attributable to Swan Hill Jockey Club CEO Aaron Garvie
“Previously, irrigating the sandtrack had to be done manually and the new auto irrigation system will not only reduce the labour time and cost involved but also produce a far superior training surface for participants.”
Quotes attributable to Swan Hill Trotting Club President Gerard Moloney
“The new tractor will be a great boost to our track maintenance and the new generator will result in big savings on our power bill.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020