They’re off with new starting stalls

By Glen Atwell
CRANBOURNE Turf Club reaffirmed its status as country racing’s premier venue after securing $77,000 in State Government funding to purchase new state-of-the-art starting stalls.
The new barriers, which are already in operation, will provide jockeys and horses with extra protection and support in the uncertain moments before the gates fly back.
Club chief executive Neil Bainbridge said the new stalls would give all those involved in getting a horse to the race track peace of mind.
“Horses can get a little unsettled in the barriers, so having extra protection is paramount,” he said.
“Trainers, owners and punters don’t want horses being withdrawn after barrier incidents.
“These new stalls will also help prevent injuries to jockeys, horses and barrier attendants,” Mr Bainbridge said.
Functionality has also been improved with the gates that lock the horses inside each stall being much easier to close.
Cranbourne’s starting stalls are the same as those used at Caulfield and give trainers, jockeys and horses the luxury of enjoying metropolitan standards at a country racecourse.
Local MP Jude Perera said the funding ensured the winning future of country racing.
“Cranbourne racing complex is arguably the backbone of the Victorian Country racing industry,” he said.
“Country racing clubs, such as the Cranbourne Turf Club, play an essential role in the social and cultural life of rural and regional communities across Victoria.”
Cranbourne’s old starting stalls will still play a key role in country racing, after being reassigned to the Bairnsdale racecourse. Mr Bainbridge said the old stalls would provide many more years of reliable service.
“They were working beautifully, it was a great initiative of Racing Victoria to send them up to Bairnsdale,” he said.
The new starting stalls cost about $80,000.