Wednesday 7 February 2018

Racegoers will enjoy new, improved facilities at the picturesque Woolamai Race Track near Phillip Island, thanks to a joint funding package of almost $9000 supported by the Andrews Labor Government.

The upgrade will see the track’s aging tote building service windows replaced – improving the race day experience for patrons and staff by modernising the tote building service area.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing announced the funding ahead of the Woolamai Cup this Saturday 10 February – one of six racing events at Woolamai in the 2017–18 racing season. The renovations will begin in March and are expected to be completed by May 2018.

The Labor Government will contribute more than $4000 towards the upgrade, while Racing Victoria and Country Racing Victoria will jointly provide more than $2000. Woolamai & District Racing Club will match the racing code bodies’ contribution.

The upgrade is part of a broader joint funding package for infrastructure upgrades at seven picnic racing clubs across the state worth almost $110,000.

The Labor Government is contributing more than $54,000 to the total package, with the remainder provided through equal contributions from Racing Victoria, Country Racing Victoria and participating clubs.

Other clubs benefitting from the package are Omeo & District Racing Club, Balnarring Picnic Racing Club, Mansfield District Racing Club, Alexandra Race Club, Dederang Picnic Race Club and Merton Race Club.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing:

“These renovations at Woolamai Race Track will make for an improved race day experience for locals, visitors and staff, as well as bringing the facilities up to modern standards.”

“Picnic racing provides a wealth of benefits for Gippsland, including jobs, tourism and a boost for local economies.”

Quotes attributable to Woolamai & District Racing Club Secretary Beverley Carmichael:

“We would like to thank the Victorian Government for its support of our club and picnic racing across the state.”

“Locals and visitors alike will continue to enjoy great racing in relaxed surrounds at our improved facilities following the installation of the new tote building windows.”