The Rockhampton Jockey Club (RJC) is set to receive a $2.3 million upgrade to provide new and expanded female jockey rooms and flood resilience at Callaghan Park.
On the eve of this week’s Rockhampton Cup, Treasurer Cameron Dick announced the multi-million project, which is expected to generate 15 jobs during construction, and be completed ahead of next year’s running of The Archer in May.
As part of the upgrade, the new female jockey rooms will cater for 15 hoops, while the RJC’s administration building will be relocated to higher ground after being frequently flooded due to its proximity to the Fitzroy River.
“At present, Rockhampton Jockey Club can only cater for four female jockeys in its current rooms,” the Treasurer said.
“This will take that number up to 15, with improved recovery facilities.
“The new facilities will support 23 jobs during construction and are scheduled to be completed in time for the second running of The Archer next May.
“Our Government understands how important events like The Archer and this weekend’s Rockhampton Cup are to a city like this.
“It’s why we’re delivering a new, sustainable funding model for Racing Queensland which sees all bookmakers pay their fair share, no matter where they are based."
Racing Minister Grace Grace said Central Queensland was an essential part of the racing industry’s footprint and the project would deliver enhanced amenities for the club.
"Racing plays a key role in Central Queensland,” Minister Grace said.
“On an annual basis, it contributes more than $55 million to the local economy, while providing more than 450 full-time jobs.
"The Callaghan Park upgrades are befitting its standing as one of Queensland’s key regional racing centres, catering for our ever-growing female riding ranks, whilst also providing much-needed flood resilience for the club.”
With the TAB Northern Queensland Winter Racing Carnival poised to get under way this week, the on-course action commences with $100,000 Rockhampton Newmarket Handicap on Friday before hosting the $150,000 Rockhampton Cup on Saturday.
The meetings run hot on the heels of the inaugural edition of The Archer, Queensland’s first thoroughbred slot race, which captured nation-wide attention with a raft of Group 1 runners and $440,000 up for grabs.
RJC Chair Rob Carr said the ongoing infrastructure improvements at the club had been warmly received.
“The Rockhampton Jockey Club is one of the busiest racing facilities across the state with close to 40 meetings stage each year,” Carr said.
“Ours is the busiest racing club outside the South-East corner and a nursery for young jockeys and aspiring trainers.
“The region hosts nine pony clubs, which are always a great starting point for track riders and potentially apprentice jockeys.
“The RJC recognises the importance of racing to the state and its significance to the community in regional Australia.
“We are very appreciative of the State Government and Racing Queensland for their support.”