Today Tasracing formally announced that it will spend up to $43 million on racing industry infrastructure in the state over the next five years to deliver necessary upgrades to racing and training venues.
Initial major projects identified in our Infrastructure Plan include a dedicated facility for the Greyhound Adoption Program and redevelopment of the turf tracks at Elwick.
It is very important to note that the work on any plans for the Elwick tracks are in their earliest days.
It is Tasracing’s intention to establish a working group, that will include representatives from the company, the Tasmanian Racing Club and the Thoroughbred Advisory Network, to work through the issues and develop a plan.
Once established, the first objective of the group will be to explore redevelopment options available and to understand the associated costs, timelines and effect on racing activities.
Communicating with industry stakeholders will be a priority to ensure you are kept up to date on project progress.
While the GAP facility and the redevelopment of thoroughbred tracks are major items, the plan also identifies other projects to be undertaken over the next five years, including:
- Construction of a greyhound straight track at Ulverstone.
- A program of works to upgrade and construct new stable facilities at Longford and Spreyton.
- Replace luminaires on the harness lighting system at Elwick.
- Improve drainage on all tracks at Brighton.
- Replace grandstand air conditioning at Mowbray.
- Construct larger female jockey facilities and improve male facilities at Spreyton.
- Enhance owner/trainer facilities for race days at Elwick / Mowbray / Spreyton and Devonport Showgrounds.
To get to this position whereby we are able to consider investing in infrastructure after a period of limiting spending, resolving the issue of business sustainability was an important step the company took last year, with the support of the Tasmanian Government.
Of course, the safety of employees, participants and patrons is of paramount importance.
We have increasing obligations to ensure we provide a safe place to work and a safe environment for patrons to enjoy our racing product.
Also, enhancing welfare reform in our greyhound racing industry is a key focus and priority. To support the re-homing strategy, new infrastructure for the GAP is required.
Finally, making efficient use of resources and funds is critical.
Tasracing has committed to funding the key infrastructure projects from cash flows without further borrowing.
This is important for our industry in order to sustain our hard won financial position.
View the new Tasracing Infrastructure Plan [PDF].
Mark Tarring
Interim CEO