Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) has undertaken an extensive investigation and trial of alternative track materials as part of a water conservation initiative supported by the Smart Water Fund.
The project assessed a number of surface materials and additives based on varying criteria including cost feasibility, potential to reduce water consumption, ease of application, ongoing performance and effect on track composition.
After testing at the Bendigo Harness Racing Club, it emerged that the application of vegetable oil was worthy of further analysis.
Working in partnership with the CSIRO, a grant from Smart Water Funds allowed for a technical study to gauge whether the use of vegetable oil reduced water consumption without impacting adversely on track conditions.
A full-scale trial of vegetable oil application was conducted over the last 12 months at Elmore Harness Racing Club and feedback from participants indicated that the solution assisted in retaining moisture and providing a more consistent track surface.
Elmore Harness Racing Club Secretary Cliff Powell said, “The oil creates a really nice cushion and it will help to quell the dust in summer, meaning much less watering of the track.
“An added bonus is the solution’s ability to shed water. There was a time where significant rain might have put trials in doubt, but they all went ahead during testing and eliminated the need for mesh shields or mudguards which was an amazing outcome.”
HRV’s Track Maintenance Advisor Graeme Maher was glowing in his praise of the unique use for vegetable oil.
“The signs are extremely positive,” he said. “The oil adhered to the finer particles and helped give the surface extra life.
“It’s only early, but we believe the product not only reduces the consumption of water, but it has the capacity to prolong the life of the material which could equate to significant savings in resurfacing costs for clubs.”
“HRV’s track maintenance guidelines revolve around horse welfare and vegetable oil can only help in this regard as its presence assists in the retention of moisture and the provision of a more consistent surface with plenty of give.”
Harness Racing Victoria is keen to try the product in smaller doses but on a more regular basis at some of its race tracks leading into the summer months.
About the Smart Water Fund
The Smart Water Fund is the Victorian water industry’s flagship centre for funding and managing collaborative research in the water sector.
Established in 2002, the Smart Water Fund is an initiative of Victoria’s water utilities and the Victorian Government that invests in water industry led research and innovation in water management.
The Fund’s vision is for “Smart investments in smart research for a water smart future.”
