- Minister for Racing
Bendigo Jockey Club will soon have more accessible and safer horse stalls under a new funding package of more than $510,000 supported by the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula today announced that the Government would invest $250,000 from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund to support the major upgrade, with the club tipping in more than $166,000 and Racing Victoria and Country Racing Victoria contributing a combined $98,000.
The club currently has 145 tie-up stalls spread over several blocks. The design and layout of the area creates movement issues for horses and the public, and restricts the ability of some owners to visit their horses.
The project will result in the redesign of the area to improve safety for participants, horses and the public and provide owners with better access to view their horses.
The works will include the demolition of 50 stalls, construction of 43 new tie-up stalls and the refurbishment of 81 stalls.
When finished, the club will boast 124 new or refurbished stalls for use on race days. An additional 14 stalls will be retained to provide the club with overflow capacity.
Since December 2014, the Labor Government has provided almost $1.8 million to support 11 events and 19 infrastructure projects at Bendigo Jockey Club.
The thoroughbred racing industry in regional Victoria generates $716 million for the Victorian economy and helps sustain more than 6,100 full-time-equivalent jobs.
As stated by Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
"They've been racing at Bendigo since 1858 and the club hosts more than 20 meetings a year, but the stalls are in need of an upgrade to ensure better service for horses, participants and the public."
As stated by Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
"We're proud to support this project which will reinforce Bendigo Jockey Club's standing as one of the best racing operations in Victoria."
As stated by Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
"These are major works that will bring real benefits to owners, trainers and racing fans who want to see the stars of the show up close."
As stated by Bendigo Jockey Club chair Rod Caldow
"We're grateful for the support of the Victorian Government in upgrading our stalls. The club has been going from strength to strength and we're building on our reputation as one of the best courses in Victoria."
