Building Better Regions Fund boost for Barker
- Mt Gambier’s all-weather race track to become a reality under the Coalition’s Building Better Regions Fund
- Coalition is investing $1.5 million under the BBRF Infrastructure Projects Stream
- Project will ensure regional racing industry’s sustainability
The upgrade of Mt Gambier’s race track to an all-weather facility will soon become a reality under the first round of the Coalition Government’s new Building Better Regions Fund – Infrastructure Projects Stream.
Making the announcement in Glenburnie today, Minister for Regional Development Fiona Nash said the project would deliver new sports facilities crucial to the economic future of the region.
“Providing a track that can host race meetings in all but the worst possible weather conditions will be a major boon for the local industry and the economies of Mt Gambier and its surrounding region,” Minister Nash said.
“I congratulate the Mt Gambier community on their successful application under the Infrastructure Projects Stream.
“I aim to help build the kinds of regional communities our children and grandchildren either want to stay in or come back to, and providing community sporting facilities does just that.”
Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the project would involve a full redevelopment of the Mt Gambier Racing Club’s main track including: replacing topsoil, construction of new drainage works and installation of a new irrigation system.
“In addition to ensuring the sustainability of racing in the region, this project will deliver economic benefits through delivering consistent track conditions which will, in turn, improve safety levels for jockeys and their horses,” Mr Pasin said.
“The project will also promote increased local participation in community activities including volunteering and fundraising opportunities for local charities.”
The project is being jointly funded with the Australian Government contributing $1.5 million under the BBRF and Thoroughbred Racing SA Limited contributing $1.7 million.
Through its Building Better Regions Fund, the Australian Government will provide almost $500 million to help fund priority infrastructure projects over four years from 2016-17, to foster economic growth in rural, regional, and remote communities.
More information about the Building Better Regions Fund is available at: business.gov.au
CONTACT: Charlotte Edmunds 8531 2466 (Mr Pasin’s office)
