Construction has begun on the new race-day stalls and trainers’ viewing deck at WA’s Bunbury Turf Club with the race-day pavilion and administration building to follow. A compromised supply chain, increased cost of materials, labour shortages and significant new works have seen the budget increase from an original $17 million to a revised $25m.
Racing and Wagering Western Australia says the redevelopment is on track for the return of racing in the first quarter of 2023.
“No shortcuts will be made in project, we a committed to getting it right for the long term,” says RWWA Head of Racing Operations, David Hunter.
The improvements will allow nearly 300 additional horses to train and includes major drainage improvements that enable all-year-round racing at the key South West racecourse.
An economic study showed by the 2029 financial year, the project will produce $36.2 million in direct expenditure for the local region each year as well as sustain 253 full-time-equivalent roles.
Read Staying in the race: Turf clubs get back on track in the Spring issue of Club Management magazine.