Funds get racecourse projects past the post

GEELONG thoroughbred racing has received more than $435,000 in a state government funding injection for two major infrastructure projects at Geelong Racecourse.

Minister for Racing Martin Pakula attended the Geelong Cup last week to announce the grant through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund towards a sand training track upgrade and a new desalination system.

The sand training track refurbishment will provide trainers with a quality track that includes the installation of an automatic irrigation system, improved drainage and a consistent surface.

The new desalination system will enable safe irrigation of the racecourse by treating the venue’s salty bore water and reducing the need for the club to purchase potable town water during times of low rainfall.

The system will ensure a constant supply of high quality water for track irrigation and be capable of feeding 18,000 litres of water per hour.

Racing Victoria is contributing more than $304,000 towards the infrastructure projects, while the Geelong Racing Club is providing more than $130,000.

The state government funding also included a $48,000 boost to support key race day attractions at the 2017 Geelong Cup, with the club contributing $101,000 and Country Racing Victoria $12,000.

Geelong Racing Club chief executive officer Daniel Salter said the club was incredibly grateful for the state government’s support for its infrastructure projects.

“The Geelong Cup has established itself as an essential race meeting in the lead up to the Melbourne Cup, particularly for international horses, and we’re proud to be supporting the event for a second consecutive year,” Mr Pakula said.