- First stage of $2.6 million upgrade to Broome Turf Club now complete
- $250,000 of fencing installed as part of Cook Labor Government’s commitment to regional racing
- Additional Regional Racing Infrastructure Fund projects to be completed over coming years
- Cook Labor Government putting WA first through election commitments
The first stage of a $2.6 million upgrade to the Broome Turf Club has been completed, ahead of thousands of racing fans gathering for this year’s Broome Cup.
New fencing was installed in June, marking the first component of the club’s major redevelopment. The $250,000 project was funded through the Cook Labor Government’s $25.2 million Regional Racing Infrastructure Fund (RRIF).
The fund, a WA Labor Government election commitment, is delivering vital improvements to regional racing venues across Western Australia.
The Broome Turf Club, regarded as one of Australia’s most distinctive racecourses, will also receive upgrades to toilet facilities, stables and jockey accommodation as part of the broader redevelopment. Construction of the new amenities is expected to be completed by June 2027.
The investment will help ensure the long-term sustainability of racing in the Kimberley, which includes Broome, Derby and Kununurra and contributes around $22.9 million to the regional economy each year.
More broadly, the WA racing industry contributes an estimated $1.3 billion annually to the State’s economy.
Broome is one of 24 regional thoroughbred and harness racing club venues benefiting from infrastructure upgrades through the RRIF program.
The Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety is overseeing the initiative, with projects delivered by Racing and Wagering Western Australia in consultation with local race clubs.
The annual Broome Cup will be run on 15 August, following the successful Kimberley Cup on 1 August and Ladies Day on 11 August, which attracted strong crowds to the iconic Broome track.
As stated by Racing and Gaming Minister Don Punch:
“The Cook Labor Government is putting WA first by delivering on our election commitment, with the first stage of the Broome Turf Club redevelopment now complete and enhancing one of the Kimberley’s premier tourism attractions.
“The Broome Cup attracts thousands of visitors each year, and our investment is helping support local jobs, tourism and the long-term future of racing in the Kimberley.
“This is another example of the Cook Labor Government delivering for regional WA, with upgraded facilities that will benefit racegoers, participants and the local economy for years to come.”
As stated by Kimberley MLA Divina D’Anna:
“The Broome Turf Club is an important part of our community, and these upgrades will ensure locals and visitors can continue enjoying race days and events at this popular venue for years to come.
“It’s great to see this election commitment being delivered, with improved facilities that will benefit local families, volunteers, racing participants and everyone who comes together to support the Broome Cup.”
