A major upgrade to the synthetic track at Pakenham Racing Club will deliver a boost to the industry over winter months and improve safety.
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula today announced the Andrews Labor Government is allocating more than $1 million from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund for the project. The club is investing more than $875,000 and Racing Victoria with Country Racing Victoria are contributing more than $1.5 million to undertake the works.
The new and improved synthetic track will provide a premium racing surface and improve safety at the racecourse.
Pakenham hosts its own full calendar of race meetings, but its all-weather surface means it also plays an important role as an alternative venue for hosting race meetings during the winter season.
The project includes removing the existing surface material, which will be either reused for pathways around the venue or mixed with the new synthetic material and reinstalled to construct the new surface on the track. It will generate 15 jobs during construction.
The synthetic track upgrade is anticipated to be completed by May to support Racing Victoria's winter racing program.
Since December 2014, the Labor Government has invested $8 million through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund to support racing infrastructure projects and thoroughbred racing events at Pakenham Racing Club.
The thoroughbred racing industry in outer Melbourne generates more than $820 million for the Victorian economy and supports over 7,000 jobs locally.
As stated by Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
"Pakenham Racing Club is one of Victoria's busiest racecourses and that's why we are backing this upgrade to ensure it continues to provide an all-weather track option."
"We're investing in these upgrades to support jobs and improve safety and welfare outcomes for Victoria's racing industry."
As stated by Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale
"This is welcome news for Pakenham Racecourse as the project makes the track safer, creates 15 jobs during construction, supports this year round facility and helps the local economy."
As stated by Racing Victoria Chair Brian Kruger
"This significant enhancement to the synthetic track will ensure that it is presented in great condition to promote safe racing and allow for the programming of crucial race meetings during the winter period."
