One of the most popular Spring Racing Carnival Country events, the annual Dunkeld Cup, is to have its racing grounds overhauled through a $124,000 project for new roads and footpaths funded by the Victorian Government.
The Minister for Sport and Recreation, Hugh Delahunty, inspected Dunkeld racecourse today to announce the development project on behalf of Minister for Racing Denis Napthine and cup organisers, Dunkeld Racing Club.
“Dunkeld is one of the flagship events for country racing with crowds in excess of 12,000 now the norm at this unique and picturesque race meeting,” Mr Delahunty said.
“The funding will assist in the installation of 2,600 square metres of sealed roadways and pathways throughout the venue and provide race day patrons with comfortable and safe means to move around the venue.
“The facilities will significantly enhance the customers’ race day experiences which will have a very positive impact on the reputation of Country Racing at small one day a year venues in the South West,” Dunkeld Racing Club spokesperson Karen Van Kempen said.
The State Government contributed $60,000, while Racing Victoria Limited and Country Racing Victoria jointly contributed the remaining $64,000.
“We are delighted that the State Government has agreed to fund with Country Racing Victoria and Racing Victoria the construction of roads and pathways throughout the Dunkeld racecourse and we thank them for their contribution,” Country Racing Victoria CEO Scott Whiteman said.
“Dunkeld is living proof that racing is a viable community asset with many local community groups receiving benefits. It is further evidence that small communities are more than capable of conducting significant local events.
“Last year terrible weather meant a reduction in numbers but all early indicators are that crowd numbers will return to 2009 levels this year and these upgrades will be welcomed by all,” Mr Whiteman said.
Minister for Racing Denis Napthine congratulated the Dunkeld Racing Club for gaining TAB status for the Dunkeld Cup this year, which includes a significant increase in prize money for owners and trainers, and will assist the club in continuing to attract a diverse crowd to the annual event.
“The Victorian Government is firmly committed to supporting country racing, and to help Victoria’s $2 billion racing industry grow and continue its enormous economic contribution to Victoria,” Dr Napthine said.
“The State Government is committed to Victorian racing, and has established the $79.5 million Victorian Racing Industry Fund through which unclaimed wagering dividends and on-course wagering taxes are returned to the racing industry through projects such as this.”
Over the next four years, the VRIF will be a source of at least $30 million in funding for significant improvements to racetracks, training infrastructure and public facilities at racing venues across Victoria.
Comments
Post has no comments.