A landmark report into the value of Tasmania’s racing industry has revealed thousands of Tasmanians benefit directly from the industry.
The report, commissioned by Tasracing, shows that nearly 6,000 people are employed or participate in the industry, including breeders, owners, trainers, racing club staff, jockeys and drivers.
Tasracing CEO, Paul Eriksson, said the report also revealed a significant economic injection into the state economy.
“Combined, the industry injects $185 million into the economy with 38 percent of that flowing to regional areas of Tasmania.
“Economically and socially, racing is the glue that holds many communities together. It has stayed the course over a hundred years and has become part of the lifeblood of many Tasmanian regional communities.
“We are seeing a growing resurgence in the popularity of racing events, especially in regional
Tasmania. In many regional centers, the summer racing carnival with its major race days across thoroughbred, harness and greyhound codes is the highlight of the local social calendar.
“These employment, participation and economic flow-on numbers are extremely encouraging, and they tell us that our vision for a vibrant future for racing in Tasmania is materialising.”
Key findings from the Report
- Racing contributes $185 million per annum to the Tasmanian Economy, with 38% of that directly benefiting regional communities.
- Almost 6,000 people involved in racing, with 63% of participants in regional communities.
- Racing supports more than 40 charitable organisations with donations, in-kind support, and facility sharing.
- More than 1,060 volunteers in the industry.
- More than 99,000 attendances of race meetings across Tasmania every year.