From the CEO – Elwick track redevelopment

Friday 28 April 2017

Earlier today (Friday 28 April 2017), Tasracing Chairman Dean Cooper announced that we have started work on initial site-specific surveys as part of our plans to replace the course proper at Luxbet Park Hobart (Elwick).

Consultants have recently been engaged to undertake both geotechnical and topographical surveys that will provide relevant information for the construction of a new track.

Work has also commenced identifying the most appropriate growing medium, grass species and irrigation system.

Once this information had been received and reviewed, a scoping document will be prepared and tenders called for the construction of the new track.

While the detailed evaluation work has only recently commenced, and it is very early days in the life of this project, we have already ruled out a synthetic surface in favour of a turf track.

Construction work is expected to start immediately after the conclusion of the 2018 Tasmanian Summer Racing Carnival in March 2018 and be completed by January 2019 in time for the running of the 2019 Hobart Cup.

However, it is important to note that no final decisions will be made until all relevant site information is known and all stakeholders have been consulted.

Tasracing will engage with the industry to determine what financial assistance will be made available for southern-based trainers and the Tasmanian Racing Club (TRC) during any period of closure.

While we have met with the TRC and outlined our initial plans, communication with industry participants and stakeholders, including jockeys and trainers, will be a priority to ensure you are kept up to date on the progress of the track redevelopment project.

Finally, it is also important to place on the record that no race meetings will be lost.

Further information about the project will be communicated to industry as soon as details are finalised.

 

Vaughn Lynch

CEO

Tasracing