Works worth $1.3 million to upgrade track at Geraldton Turf Club get under way

Track upgrades at Geraldton Turf Club are no longer a pipe dream, with the start of $1.3 million of works to replace the irrigation system and turf in time for the new racing season. The Geraldton works is the first project to get off and running under the State Government’s special $25.2m Royalties for Regions Fund to benefit 22 thoroughbred and harness racing clubs across regional WA with infrastructure upgrades. Before the March State election, the Opposition and Racing and Wagering WA accused Labor of backflipping on the funding commitment. However, Labor denied that was the case and confirmed their commitment on the eve of the election. The irrigation replacement at Geraldton Turf Club is expected to be finished by September, paving the way for track preparation ahead of the 2025-26 season kicking off in October. Other Mid West and Gascoyne venues to receive funding include the Dongara-Irwin Race Club and Carnarvon Race Club. The infrastructure works being funded include new and upgraded turf, lighting, fencing, roofing, horse stalls, cameras, vision towers and administration offices, as well as steward and jockey rooms and new facilities for female participants. Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia was pleased to announce the first project at Geraldton was under way. “Like the local pub and RSL, race clubs make up the fabric of our rural towns, bringing people together and boosting vibrancy,” he said. “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.” Mid West Minister Jackie Jarvis said the investment in the Geraldton club would ensure it was “fit-for-purpose to host its popular race meets, which are a much-loved outing for locals from across the Mid West and visitors to the region, and provide an economic boost for the Geraldton community”. “The Geraldton Turf Club was in desperate need of a new irrigation system to be able to get its 2025 season started, but now its future is assured with these works under way,” she said.

Works worth $1.3 million to upgrade track at Geraldton Turf Club get under way

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