$5M for country racing

Tuesday, 01 February 2011 09:53

Media Releases - Kevin Anderson Media Release

NSW Nationals Leader Andrew Stoner, Shadow Minister for Racing George Souris and The Nationals Candidate for Tamworth, Kevin Anderson today announced that, if elected, a NSW Liberals & Nationals government would provide a cash injection of $5 million to help secure the future of country race courses.

"Racing in country NSW is part of the social fabric of our local communities and it's something we need to support," Mr Stoner said.

"After 16 years of being neglected by NSW Labor, race course facilities have been neglected to the point where the backlog is starting to threaten the viability of many clubs.

"That is why the NSW Liberals & Nationals will inject $5 million in funding that will go towards capital improvements such as new safety railings at individual clubs like Barraba, Gunnedah, Quirindi and Tamworth.

"Not only is racing a sport that helps to define our unique culture and way of life but it's also a major employer and a crucial part of the State's economy.

"The NSW Liberals & Nationals are not willing to stand idly by as country race clubs fight for survival."

Mr Souris said that, unlike Labor, the NSW Liberals & Nationals understand the importance of the racing industry to the economy of country NSW.

"Racing in country NSW is renowned for its breeding and training, as well as its network of racecourses," Mr Souris said.

"Whether it is greyhound racing, harness racing or thoroughbred racing, the nursery of the racing industry is country NSW and we are proud of the contribution we make to Australia's international reputation."

The funds would be available to the administration of the three racing codes – Greyhound Racing NSW, Harness Racing NSW and Racing NSW Country – to be distributed to country clubs (non metropolitan or provincial) in accordance with the proportion of each code's total country contribution to wagering in NSW over the period 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2010.

Mr Anderson stressed the importance of the electorate's racing clubs to the local community.

"The racing industry in the local area is not only important to our community but also to our economy," Mr Anderson said.

"By helping secure the future of country race courses like Barraba, Gunnedah, Quirindi and Tamworth, we are investing in the viability of the industry.

"If elected as the Member for Tamworth, I will always fight for the future of country racing."

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