Media Releases

Bendigo’s reputation for producing some of Victorian thoroughbred racing’s
most celebrated champions is set to continue with the Victorian Coalition
Government last night announcing an $80,000 grant to upgrade the club’s
synthetic training track.


Attending the Melbourne launch of Bendigo’s premier Golden Mile Raceday
last night, Minister for Racing Denis Napthine said the Bendigo
Jockey Club had a proud tradition of producing winners.


“Known as our ‘Nursery of Champions’, Bendigo is a leading racing region
with the likes of Better Loosen Up, Bletchingly and Hyperno all winning
their first races here,” Dr Napthine said.


“By making sure the training facilities at the track remain of the highest
standard, I am confident Bendigo will be the breeding ground for many more
future champions.


“Providing top quality training facilities in Bendigo is also vital in
supporting the economy and employment within the racing industry which
contributes close to $250 million annually to the north central region and
generates jobs for more than 3,500 people.


“The Coalition Government is pleased to support this project with $40,000
from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund (VRIF) while a further $40,000 will
be jointly provided by Racing Victoria and Country Racing Victoria,” Dr
Napthine said.


Bendigo Jockey Club Chief Executive Officer Ian Hart said the club greatly
appreciated the support for the project which was necessary after wear and
tear, and heavy rainfall damaged the existing synthetic training facility.


“Bendigo racecourse is the training base for a large number of trainers and
horses and this upgrade will be of great benefit to those participants by
providing an improved alternative training surface,” Mr Hart said.


“The track upgrade is a joint investment between the Victorian Government
and Racing Victoria, to help resolve any drainage issues and provide a safe
and uniform surface for trainers to work their horses.


“Other works will include blending additional training synthetic material
and binder into the existing track and regulating the depth of the track,”
Mr Hart said.