NSW Racing To Receive $17 Million Funding Boost

Racecourses in New South Wales will receive a $17 million funding package from the state government to refurbish and upgrade the current facilities.

Racing Minister George Souris confirmed that a number of large payments had already been made to Racing NSW to fund ongoing projects.

“A $174 million funding package was announced last year to underpin the merger of the Australian Turf Club and Sydney Jockey Club to fund major upgrades to Royal Randwick and Rosehill Gardens racecourses,” Mr Souris said.

“While Tabcorp is providing $150 million to Royal Randwick, the former NSW Government committed $24 million for Rosehill Gardens.

“The first instalment of $12 million was paid to Racing NSW, which is managing the project, in March.

“As part of this Budget, I am pleased to confirm that the NSW Government has honoured the funding commitment for this worthwhile project and paid the second instalment in July.

“The proposed works will improve vehicle and pedestrian access to the racecourse and provide new and upgraded spectator and entertainment facilities.

“Refurbishment and alternations will be carried out to the Fleming Stand on all levels, while a demountable infield concert stage will be installed opposite the grandstand as well as a new infield screen.

“The project also includes a vehicular access bridge and tunnel link to the infield carpark, a new main entry and pedestrian railway bridge from James Ruse Drive and a new pedestrian bridge over James Ruse Drive.”

While the majority of the funding will go to Rosehill Gardens and Randwick Racecourse, a $5 million sum has been promised to help facilitate the development of country racing in New South Wales.

“The $5 million injection will fund capital improvements such as new safety railings at individual country thoroughbred, harness and greyhound racing clubs,” Mr Souris said.

“The funds will be available to Greyhound Racing NSW, Harness Racing NSW and Racing NSW and distributed to country clubs in accordance with the proportion of each code’s total country contribution to wagering in NSW last year.”

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