Work commences on $8.9 million new synthetic track at Sunshine Coast Turf Club

Work on the Sunshine Coast Turf Club’s $8.9 million new synthetic track project commences today with equine surface specialists Martin Collins Australia installing the new all-weather Polytrack surface at the busy Corbould Park venue.

Martin Collins Australia’s synthetic racing surfaces have been chosen for over 20 racecourses across the world. Their racing surfaces are proven to withstand high levels of use, yet require far less maintenance than turf. Approved by the BHA, and designed specifically for horses travelling at high speed, Polytrack minimises the risk of injury and provides a consistent, secure surface for horses to perform to the best of their ability.

Queensland Racing Minister Grace Grace notes “Corbould Park is one of Queensland’s busiest training centres, as well as a key racing venue. Replacing the old surface with the latest technology, along with irrigation and drainage works, will be a major boost for racing and training in the south-east corner.

“Queensland’s racing industry contributes $1.6 billion annually to the state’s economy and supports more than 12,600 full-time equivalent jobs.

“Once the new track is in, the project will deliver increased commercial returns to the club and industry and improved racing and training.” 

The synthetic track up-grade is co-funded via the Queensland Government, Racing Queensland and the Sunshine Coast Turf Club.

Racing Queensland Chief Executive, Brendan Parnell said the benefits of the project would extend beyond the Sunshine Coast and added “Corbould Park is one of the busiest training centres in Queensland with around 400 horses utilising the tracks every day.

“Technology has advanced rapidly since the original synthetic track was laid, and in the near future, the Sunshine Coast will boast a surface that will provide enhanced training facilities, along with greater flexibility in race scheduling.”

Sunshine Coast Turf Club Chairman Peter Boyce said the new all-weather track would provide the club with a range of opportunities.  

“The track will provide our trainers with first-class training facilities and security for racing, being able to race in all weather conditions.”

For more information on Martin Collins Australia’s synthetic racing surfaces go to www.polytrack.com.au/racing-surfaces/tracks/

Images courtesy of facebook.com/scturfclub