The Townsville Turf Club is set to benefit from 100 new raceday stalls as the redevelopment of Cluden Park continues to take shape.
Funded out of the Racing Infrastructure Fund, the $1.5 million project is expected to create 13 jobs during construction, whilst proving improved health and safety benefits to North Queensland participants.
Earlier this year, TTC unveiled its $12 million redevelopment after being inundated during the 2019 floods.
The works included a refurbished public stand and members’ stand, along with a new building for jockeys and stewards.
The multi-million renovations were completed in time for last month’s Townsville Cup, which featured a sell-out crowd under COVIDSafe conditions.
Racing Queensland Deputy Chair Sharon Dawson said the announcement was another positive step for the industry in North Queensland.
“The delivery of new raceday stalls in the North will ensure the participant amenities are akin to those now being enjoyed off the track,” Ms Dawson said.
“Cluden Park is now an outstanding facility that showcases everything that is great about racing in North Queensland.
“With further initiatives on the horizon, including the inaugural Final of the Coral Coast Shield to be staged in Townsville on November 28, racing continues to go from strength-to-strength in North Queensland.”
As part of the project, two buildings will be constructed with 50 stalls in each, providing access for up to 100 horses on racedays and during trackwork sessions.
Having overseen the redevelopment at Cluden Park following last year’s floods, TTC General Manager Natalie Rintala said she welcomed the funding announcement as the latest step in the road to recovery.
"The Club welcomes the announcement of the financial commitment by Racing Queensland and the Queensland Government that will see new day stalls constructed," Ms Rintala said.
"The new stalls will replace the existing buildings which are in need of repair and will be designed with a strong focus on the welfare of horses that visit the Townsville facility.
"The Club will incorporate in the design increased opportunities for patrons to safely view the horses and feel part of the excitement generated by our sport.
"This is one of the final pieces in the redevelopment of Townsville Turf Club facilities that deliver a safe and functional space for important industry participants."
Meanwhile, applications for the third round of the Country Racing Program opened to non-TAB clubs last month.
During the opening two rounds of funding, North Queensland clubs have benefited significantly from CRP including:
- Towers Jockey Club: $450,000 - Drainage works to the course proper; upgrade to the racing surface and an irrigation upgrade;
- Ewan Amateur Turf Club: $145,000 - Upgrade to existing jockey/steward/secretary/medical block; padding starting barriers and expanding saddling enclosure; and
- Bowen Turf Club: $87,500 - Track irrigation; tie-up stall upgrade; horse welfare equipment; and public area awning and concrete.
Applications for the third round of CRP funding close at 11.59pm on October 13, 2020.
Click here for more information on the Country Racing Program.