The Allan Labor Government has announced significant upgrades to two prominent racecourses in Bendigo, aiming to elevate the region as a leading destination for horse racing in Victoria. A total investment of $1.83 million includes a $1.3 million upgrade to the Bendigo Harness Racing Club’s lighting system and a $530,000 contribution for new turf at the Bendigo Jockey Club.
The Bendigo Harness Racing Club will see its ageing lighting system replaced with 190 new LED lights. These state-of-the-art lights promise enhanced visibility for both spectators and broadcasters, while also reducing operational costs and the club’s carbon footprint. The upgrades are expected to be completed by mid-2024, improving the overall race day experience.
Meanwhile, the Bendigo Jockey Club will replace its current track with 60,000 square metres of durable Kikuyu turf, renowned for its rapid recovery and consistent racing surface. This enhancement is projected to improve drainage and reduce maintenance demands, ultimately benefiting both horses and jockeys. The club, home to 150 horses and 42 trainers, hosts 23 race meetings annually, making it a vital part of the regional racing scene.
Timeline and Economic Impact
Construction at both venues will commence immediately following the Bendigo Cup on October 29, 2023. The works are scheduled for completion by April 2026, allowing for a brief installation period followed by the necessary growth time for the new turf.
According to Anthony Carbines, Minister for Racing, regional racing contributes over $1.17 billion to the Victorian economy and supports approximately 9,000 jobs in regional areas. He emphasized the importance of investing in Bendigo’s racing facilities to sustain this economic impact.
Jacinta Allan, Premier and Member for Bendigo East, reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting local venues. She stated, “Investing in our regional racing venues backs jobs in the community and boosts the local economy. We are supporting both racecourses to ensure they can continue to host events for many years to come.”
Community and Industry Support
The upgrades have garnered support from key stakeholders in the racing industry. Paul Scullie, CEO of the Bendigo Jockey Club, noted, “This new turf will solidify Bendigo’s place as a thriving hub for regional racing in Victoria and will prioritise the wellbeing of our horses and jockeys first and foremost.”
Furthermore, Matt Isaacs, Chief Executive Officer of Harness Racing Victoria, highlighted the significance of Bendigo in the harness racing community. He remarked, “This area is a big part of harness racing’s heartland, with a broad participant base and a passionate local club. It has been an integral part of the industry’s past, and with this investment, it will be an even bigger part of our future.”
Since 2014, the Labor Government has invested in 110 projects across various racing codes in Bendigo, totaling more than $12 million. The latest upgrades reaffirm the government’s commitment to enhancing the local racing landscape and supporting the community’s economic development.
