Horse racing at Cranbourne and Pakenham has received a major boost with a commitment from the State Government to build new infrastructure and create hundreds of new jobs.
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula announced on Monday 22 October a $17.5 million investment to create new facilities at both the Cranbourne Training Complex and Pakenham Racing Club as part of a $40.1 million joint funding package.
Thoroughbred training at the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve will be relocated over the next five years, to open up the reserve for greater public access and recreational use.
The Labor Government will invest more than $6 million at the Cranbourne Training Complex for the construction of additional stabling, an inside grass track, an equine pool and tunnel upgrades to accommodate additional horses.
More than $8 million will also go to the Pakenham Racing club for new stabling, new uphill grass and synthetic tracks and an additional equine pool.
The project will accommodate an additional 600 horse boxes and create up to 200 new jobs during construction, with a total economic impact estimated to be more than $250 million.
Racing Victoria and the Melbourne Racing Club will contribute $22.6 million towards the project. Works at both facilities will begin immediately, to help relocations which may begin from mid-2020.
Trainers will have up to five years to relocate from their existing facilities at Caulfield Racecourse Reserve.
The Government has approved a long-term lease between Caulfield Racecourse Reserve Trust and the Melbourne Racing Club to increase recreational opportunities and secure horse racing at the reserve for another 65 years.
As part of this, the Government will provide an additional $1 million to support the Trust to develop a long-term land use plan for the site, to open up the space and balance the needs of residents, racing stakeholders and community groups.
The Trust will develop a three year corporate plan that will set out the strategic direction and management of the reserve in close consultation with the local community.
Minister for Racing Martin Pakulas said the new facilities would also provide a major economic boost for the racing industry and help ensure thoroughbred racing in Victoria “keeps pace with international standards.”
Cranbourne MP Jude Perera said thoroughbred racing was a “vital part of our community” and the major investment would provide local jobs and ensure these facilities remained “world class for years to come.”
