Seven race clubs in North Queensland will share in $562,500 worth of funding to deliver new and improved racing infrastructure.
Racing Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the funding was part of a $3.9 million country racing infrastructure package to be shared between 55 Queensland race clubs.
The funding for the North Queensland clubs includes:
- Bowen Turf Club – $11,500 for horse welfare equipment – chiller bin and electrical upgrade
- Burdekin Race Club – $30,000 for fencing to saddling area and refurbishment of stabling complex
- Ewan Amateur Turf Club Inc. – $145,000 for upgrade to existing Jockey/Steward/Secretary/medical block, padding starting barriers and expanding saddling enclosure
- Herbert River Jockey Club Inc. – $51,000 for repairs of racing surface, track analysis, weed control and fertiliser program
- Pentland Race Club Inc – $20,000 for barrier refurbishment
- Tower Hill Picnic Amateur Race Club – $30,000 for upgrade of female Jockeys’ room
- Towers Jockey Club – $275,000 for drainage works to the course proper and upgrade racing surface
“Country racing is integral to communities and residents living in North Queensland,” he said.
“Small non-TAB clubs are at the heart of these communities, bringing people together and supporting local economies.
“They’re not rich clubs by any means, but they have to meet ongoing infrastructure needs and this doesn’t always come cheap.
“These funds will help improve the financial bottom line of these clubs while delivering the infrastructure they need going forward.
“It’s all part of the Palaszczuk Government’s four-year $70.4 million Country Racing Support Package which is delivering great results at the grassroots level.”
