A significant milestone has been reached as part of the $3.7 million upgrade to Bathurst’s Tyers Park Racecourse.
Late last year the Member for Bathurst Paul Toole announced NSW Government funding for the project which aims to reinvigorate thoroughbred racing in the region.
The investment was rolled out as part of the NSW Government’s COVID-19 stimulus package and will result in 40 jobs for local tradies.
Mr Toole visited Tyers Park where the first of four state-of-the-art horse walkers has been installed as part of the drive to lure trainers to base their operations at the facility.
“The $3.7 million grant from the NSW Government is for the construction of additional stabling (four stable blocks of 20 boxes each), horse walkers and treadmills as well as widening the track by three metres," Mr Toole said.
“Racing has a long and proud history in the Bathurst electorate and the racing industry is significant to our local economy and sporting culture" - Paul Toole MP
“The arrival of COVID-19 impacted the ability of Bathurst Thoroughbred Racing Club to fund much-needed infrastructure improvements, so it’s great to be able to work alongside the club to see these vital works undertaken.
“These upgrades will help ensure our local racing industry remains sustainable and vibrant and attracts new participants once the pandemic passes."
President of Bathurst Thoroughbred Racing Bernard Ryan said the $3.7 million grant has already proven a great success even before a single sod has turned.
“To think that some 18 months ago we only 30 horses in work at the track and today, just on the promise of the redevelopment works to come, we now have a commitment for between 70-80 horses to be based at Tyers Park, each pumping about $20,000 per annum directly into the local economy,” Mr Ryan said.