Aerial view of Tabcorp Park Menangle and the Menangle Training Centre
Regional training centres and track upgrades will be the focus of HRNSW in the ensuing years with funding allocated from Tax Parity, the Future Fund and the Racecourse Development Fund.
Almost $3million will be allocated, with a training centre at Paceway Bathurst being the first major project to be undertaken.
“The measurable success of the Menangle Park Training Centre gives HRNSW the confidence that similar facilities in the regional centres of Bathurst, Wagga and Tamworth will allow the industry to grow in NSW,” Chief Executive John Dumesny expressed.
The development of the new Wagga Wagga track will commence in 2016 and the planning for the Tamworth facility is currently under consideration by the Tamworth Council.
Strategically located tracks will be considered for upgrades in association with Clubs and local authorities, whilst HRNSW will address the NSW Government’s White Paper in relation to Crown Land properties on which harness racing tracks are situated.
Allocations from the Racecourse Development Fund will take a new direction from FY19 as there will be an expectation for tracks to meet basic racing compliance by that time.
“Clubs will need to bring their tracks up to standard with regard to swabbing facilities, stewards and camera operators all weather stands and access to stabling areas over the next two years,” Mr Dumesny said.
The RDF will revert to an applications based system, allowing major infrastructure projects to be undertaken on a needs basis which satisfies the strategic direction of the industry.
ends
Harness Racing NSW (HRNSW) is the controlling body for harness racing in New South Wales with responsibility for commercial and regulatory management of the industry including 31 racing clubs across the State. HRNSW is headed by an industry-appointed Board of Directors and is independent of Government.
To arrange an interview or for further information please contact:
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Name:
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Greg Hayes
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Position:
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Media Manager
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Phone:
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(02) 9722 6600
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Email:
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ghayes@hrnsw.com.au
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