The Pakenham Racing Club is set to receive a new 600-metre training track, courtesy of a joint investment of more than $283,000 from the Andrews Labor Government, alongside contributions from Racing Victoria and the club itself.
The facility is aimed at enhancing training conditions for horses and is expected to create 20 jobs during construction.
Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines heralded the announcement today, detailing the $283,000 from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund allocated for the track, with the Pakenham Racing Club contributing almost $85,000, and Racing Victoria adding over $198,000.
The six-metre-wide stand-alone track will offer trainers opportunities to initiate light training activity, including slow work and trotting. It’s an addition that will take pressure off existing training tracks at the club.
The need for additional facilities arose due to an increase in demand at Pakenham after the relocation of trainers and horses from Caulfield. The track is scheduled to open in December.
The Victorian Government has shown long-term support for the Pakenham Racecourse, investing over $9.6 million since December 2014 for racing infrastructure projects and thoroughbred racing events.
The industry in outer Melbourne generates over $863 million for the Victorian economy, also supporting more than 7,000 local jobs.
Minister Carbines commended the Pakenham Racing Club, stating, “Pakenham Racing Club is a valuable racing venue for the south-east — that’s why we are backing in these works to ensure the course continues to have world class facilities for the growing number of trainers and horses.”
Member for Pakenham Emma Vulin expressed support, remarking, “We’re investing in the Pakenham Racing Club to ensure it continues to be a destination of choice for trainers, bringing more local jobs to our community.”
Pakenham Racing Club’s Chief Executive Officer Blair Odgers acknowledged the government’s continued backing, asserting, “The new training trot track is a much-needed facility, and we thank the Victorian Government for continuing to support the club and the growth of the racing industry in Pakenham.”
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