Conservation tops turf list

By Sarah Schwager
WATER conservation has topped the list of priorities at Cranbourne Turf Club.
A storm-water dam is just 12 weeks from completion after the club received a $250,000 State Government grant to continue works.
The 25-megalitre capacity irrigation storage dam is designed to capture run-off from the grandstand, horse stables and car park at the racetrack.
Cranbourne Turf Club chief executive officer Neil Bainbridge said the dam meant they would no longer have to rely on water from the town to irrigate the racetrack.
“If we did have a drought, it would jeopardise our ability to operate,” Mr Bainbridge said.
“This will enable us to not have to rely on the town water supply.
“It will not only be cost saving, but it will also save on water usage.”
The Hunt Club Estate in Cranbourne East is also set to receive State Government funds, with $30,000 allocated to help reduce waste consumption and recycle water.
Victoria’s Water Minister, John Thwaites, said the projects were selected after a highly competitive third round of applications that showed growing interest from regional Victoria in using rainwater and stormwater to substitute for fresh water.