The NSW Nationals in the state government will invest a record $67 million in regional racetracks in the 2021-22 NSW Budget, delivering improved facilities for racegoers.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro and NSW Nationals Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation Kevin Anderson have joined the newly-elected Member for Upper Hunter Dave Layzell in Scone to announce the record funding for the industry.
“This is the largest investment by the NSW Nationals in the state government in racing infrastructure and it is entirely focused on regional NSW,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This is yet another example of how we are actively supporting a regional renaissance, giving people in regional NSW access to the best quality amenities and recreation facilities.
“This funding to upgrade racetracks in regional NSW will mean more jobs for locals and more money coming into country towns through increased tourism generated by the capacity to host more high-quality race meets.”
Mr Anderson said the $67 million will be split across Racing NSW venues in regional NSW.
“The recent Cups Carnival programs like Scone, Tamworth and Gunnedah attracted large crowds with people keen to get back on track,” Mr Anderson said.
“Thoroughbred racing is the lifeblood of many country towns, accounting for around 17,700 jobs in the regions and contributes $1.9 billion to the state’s economy. This investment by the NSW Nationals in the state government will ensure those numbers keep growing with more money coming into our country towns.”
Mr Layzell has welcomed the funding which will see upgrades to infrastructure and the tracks.
“We have the best thoroughbred horses in the world right here in the Upper Hunter so it makes sense that we also have the best racing facilities,” he said.
“This is fantastic news for the people of the Upper Hunter as the flow-on effects of these upgrades will reach every corner of our community as people flock to town for the races, staying in local hotels, eating at local cafes, and shopping in local stores.”
