Western Australian Government invests in regional Racing Industry to boost tourism and local economies

The Western Australian Government is investing $25.2 million to upgrade regional racecourse infrastructure aimed at boosting tourism and local economies.

The infrastructure projects will include various upgrades to deliver turf, lighting, fencing, roofing, horse stalls, cameras, vision towers and administration offices, as well as steward and jockey rooms, including new facilities for female participants.

Work has already commenced at the Geraldton Turf Club to replace the track's irrigation system and turf at a cost of $1.3 million. The irrigation replacement is expected to be completed by September, allowing for track preparation ahead of the season resuming in October 2025.

A special Royalties for Regions Racing Fund (RRRF) has been approved to fund industry projects at various regional thoroughbred and harness racing club venues.

Management of the RRRF initiative will be provided by the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety (LGIRS) and the projects will be delivered via Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) in consultation with racing clubs.

Clubs to receive funding from the RRRF:

• Albany Harness Racing Club;

• Albany Racing Club;

• Broome Turf Club;

• Bunbury Trotting Club;

• Bunbury Turf Club;

• Busselton Trotting Club;

• Carnarvon Race Club;

• Collie Race Club;

• Dongara-Irwin Race Club;

• Esperance Bay Turf Club;

• Geraldton Turf Club;

• Kalgoorlie-Boulder Race Club;

• Kununurra Race Club;

• Mount Barker Turf Club;

• Narrogin Race and Pace;

• Northam Harness Racing Club;

• Northam Race Club;

• Pinjarra Paceway;

• Pinjarra Race Club;

• Roebourne - Nor West Jockey Club;

• Wagin Trotting Club; and

• Williams Harness Racing Club.

The $25.2 million is additional to the $1.5 million provided by the State Government for the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club to establish the 'Golden Saddle' slot race later this year, and to utilise a $261,000 grant to cover additional water costs.

WA Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia noted "we are committed to supporting regional racing clubs across Western Australia because they are such an important part of our country communities.

"Like the local pub and RSL, race clubs make up the fabric of our rural towns - bringing people together and boosting vibrancy.

"I am pleased to announce the first project at Geraldton is now underway and is set to be completed just in time for the racing season later this year. The other regional racing clubs can expect to hear from RWWA in the coming weeks about the infrastructure upgrades at their club.

"Our major investment will also see many more infrastructure upgrades across regional WA over the coming years that will enhance the experience for racegoers and industry participants.

"In addition to this $25.2 million commitment, the State Government recently stepped up to provide emergency funding to save the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club's 2025 season and has awarded $1.5 million over three years for the running of the 'Golden Saddle' slot race which is set to be held for the first time on 4 October this year."

Image. Credit: Geraldton Turf Club