Victorian Coalition Funding Takes Shepparton Greyhound Racing To The Lead
Patron facilities at Shepparton's greyhound and harness racetracks are set to receive a boost with Minister for Racing Denis Napthine today announcing major upgrades for spectator comfort at both facilities.
Dr Napthine said the Victorian Coalition Government would help fund two brand new viewing decks for greyhound and harness racing at the Kialla Paceway precinct, in a joint investment with the racing industry worth $178,630.
The new viewing deck at Shepparton Greyhound Racing Club is set to increase capacity to seat an extra 70 spectators at the state-of-the-art facility and provide an exciting vantage point for punters.
An elevated split-level deck will be installed at Shepparton Harness Racing Club to provide an alfresco dining area for up to 100 extra punters, in a prime position overlooking the parade ring and racetrack.
“These new alfresco areas will increase capacity for feature races and the decks will have tables, umbrellas and seating, with marquees to cater for private functions,” Dr Napthine said.
“The Coalition Government is pleased to partner with Greyhound Racing Victoria and Harness Racing Victoria to deliver nearly $180,000 in improvements to the region's racing heartland and to create important local jobs during the construction phase.”
Member for Shepparton Jeanette Powell said the projects would be welcome additions to the region's vibrant racing industry.
“Shepparton's harness and greyhound races are very popular and the construction of these new outdoor decks will provide not only great viewing points for spectators, but also relaxed function facilities to benefit clubs and community groups across the region,” Mrs Powell said.
GRV's Deputy Chairman Bill Salter said the greyhound industry was proud to work in conjunction with the Coalition Government to deliver another innovative yet practical infrastructure project by jointly funding the 75 square-metre deck on a dollar for dollar basis.
“This investment has the potential to open up new doors for greyhound racing in the town of Shepparton, particularly in terms of enticing local businesses, social groups and sporting clubs to take advantage of what will be a fabulous outdoor facility,” Mr Salter said.
HRV Chairman Mr Ken Latta said Shepparton was one of Victoria's expanding and most passionate harness racing communities and it was terrific to see the Victorian Government again promoting the sport in a key regional centre.
“The Shepparton complex is an outstanding arena for harness racing and this enhancement to the facility will attract even more patrons to visit the
track for a unique harness racing experience.
“The collaboration between the Victorian Government, Shepparton HRC and Harness Racing Victoria to fund and foster this project has led to another positive outcome for the industry,” Mr Latta said.
Funding agreements for the two projects are as follows:
- Greyhound racing outdoor deck – $98,000 to be equally funded by the Victorian Coalition Government and GRV
- Harness Racing outdoor deck – $80,630 to be equally funded by the Victorian Coalition Government and HRV