The Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club (KBRC) has sent out an SOS message as they face a significant challenge as it’s upcoming racing season is jeopardised by a critical shortage of recycled water required to maintain its turf racing surface.
This water scarcity threatens not only the continuation of races but also the economic and social benefits that horse racing brings to the Goldfields-Esperance region.
The KBRC is working closely with Racing WA, the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, and state government officials to address the pressing issue.
Without a sustainable solution, the potential cancellation or disruption of the racing season could have a severe impact on the local economy, which relies heavily on the horse racing industry.
Contributing $1.3 billion annually to Western Australia’s economy, with $54.5 million benefiting the Goldfields-Esperance area, the racing sector also provides 430 full-time jobs locally, making it a vital employer in the community.
Beyond the economic implications, horse racing events are a cornerstone of social life in Kalgoorlie-Boulder. The annual Race Round, in particular, attracts both local residents and visitors, fostering a sense of community and drawing significant tourism.
The loss or reduction of such events would be felt deeply by locals who rely on the festivities to strengthen community ties.
The KBRC is committed to keeping stakeholders informed of developments and is actively seeking input and solutions from the community.
Feedback and recommendations can be directed to their administrative team at admin@kbrc.com.au.
Resolving the water shortage requires collaborative efforts between the community, local authorities, and industry stakeholders.
The KBRC remains determined to preserve the racing tradition that has long been an integral part of Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s identity, ensuring that the sport continues to thrive despite the challenges ahead.
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