Wednesday, 28 May 2008: Thoroughbred Racing SA has welcomed today's announcement by the SA Government of a $6 million funding package for the redevelopment of Gawler racecourse and $5 million for the building of a second racetrack at Allan Scott Park Morphettville.
The Government funding for Gawler will be matched by the Gawler & Barossa Jockey Club and TRSA.
The $12 million will be spent realigning and installing a new track and constructing function and administration facilities.
Morphettville will be left as Adelaide's only metropolitan track when Cheltenham closes its gates in February following its sale to land developers.
TRSA Chairman Philip Bentley said today's announcement marked a “watershed” in cooperation between the State Government and the racing industry.
“This is an historic day for South Australian racing and represents the springboard we need to propel the sport into a sustainable and successful long-term future,” Bentley said.
“This funding ensures that Allan Scott Park Morphettville will take the next step as South Australia's premier racing venue while the redevelopment of Gawler will establish it as Adelaide's second metropolitan racecourse following the industry's decision to leave Victoria Park."
The second turf track at Morphettville will enable the SAJC to conduct up to 65 race meetings a year at the venue while consolidating infrastructure expenditure.
Work on the new track is expected to commence in October.
"This project will deliver a second, high-quality metropolitan racecourse to complement Allan Scott Park Morphettville while also injecting new funds and life into the Gawler area,” Bentley said.
“This is the first time that the racing industry has received capital funding from government for a long time. It's recognition of the TRSA's efforts to restructure and grow our business,” Bentley said.
At the core of the Gawler redevelopment is a new track, which will have a longer straight, will be wider and more cost-efficient than the current track.
The $12 million project will also see the construction of a multi-purpose building that will serve both as a race-day facilities centre and a community function centre, catering for over 300 people.
Additionally, the plans include scope for 19 hectares in the centre of the track to be utilised as a community stormwater drainage facility and sporting field.
It is anticipated that work on the new track will begin in February 2009 with racing expected to resume approximately 12 months later.
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