Delivering for Victoria’s racing industry
A Liberal and Nationals Government will continue the Victorian Racing Industry Fund (VRIF) to support the sustainability and growth of thoroughbred, harness and greyhound racing.
Shadow Minister for Racing, Tim Bull, made the announcement and committed more than $55,000 to the Wangaratta Turf Club to transform the derelict canteen pavilion at into a vibrant space for race days and community events.
Mr Bull said the VRIF delivers many benefits to racing clubs the length and breadth of the state, and will continue to do so under an elected Liberal and Nationals Government.
“Our racing sector is a key employer in Victoria and a significant economic driver, particularly in our regional areas. It’s an industry we should be proud of,” Mr Bull said.
“The industry generates $4.3 billion for the Victorian economy, sustains around 35,000 full time equivalent jobs and about 120,000 people are directly employed, volunteer or participate in racing industry activities.
“Victoria’s more than 110 thoroughbred, harness and greyhound racing clubs are, in many cases, the lifeblood of our regional townships.
“For Wangaratta this $55,300 investment will allow more options for community groups using the facilities at the Turf Club, and will also allow the club to host more patrons on race day, as well as improving the safety of racegoers.”
Nationals Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, said the upgrades will benefit the community for years to come.
“The Wangaratta Turf Club has a huge economic input in the community, by investing in spaces that can be utilised by community groups, it means this can continue for years to come,” Mr McCurdy said.
“Wangaratta Turf Club has some of the best facilities in regional Victoria, and this investment will help Wangaratta to achieve the vision of a premier racing centre in regional Victoria.”