The Andrews Labor Government is backing Benalla Racing Club to build new stables at the track and provide a significant new income stream for the club, helping to secure it financially for the future.
Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines today inspected the early construction work and announced the government has allocated more than $239,000 from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund to the project.
The club is contributing more than $299,000 and Racing Victoria more than $59,000.
The new stable complex will be fitted out to house 20 horses, along with an undercover horse walking area and facilities for training staff.
Currently, there are around 26 trainers that use the club’s facilities, but there is no on-course stabling, so horses are brought in by float each day, which is time consuming and inefficient for trainers.
The rent from the stables will provide a significant new income stream for the club, helping to secure its financial future.
The project will be finished in November, supporting 20 jobs during construction and creating eight jobs when operational.
The club is an important contributor to the local economy hosting 11 race meetings and six trial meetings a year.
Since December 2014, the Labor Government has invested more than $1.45 million to support racing and infrastructure projects at Benalla Racing Club.
The thoroughbred racing industry in regional Victoria generates $711 million for the Victorian economy and helps sustain almost 5,600 jobs.
As stated by Minister for Racing, Anthony Carbines
“This investment will not only support the racing industry it will create local jobs in the community.”
As stated by Benalla Racing Club President Greg McNulty
“Our local trainers have been asking about accommodation for some time and the club will benefit from extra revenue – it’s a win-win development and I’m grateful for the government’s support.”
As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“These new stables will be a win for trainers and community as well, boosting jobs in the area.”
