Cold drinks and uninterrupted raceday broadcasting is on the cards for Warialda Jockey Club after Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall MP announced a $47,159 State Government grant to improve trackside electricity supply at the historic Warialda Racecourse.
Mr Marshall said that the money, which was secured under the NSW Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, would help ensure there was a steady flow of energy through the trackside amenities and public spaces.
“The grant will ensure both the safety and reliability for power services at Warialda Racecourse – and I cannot think of anything more important,” Mr Marshall said.
“For a long time, they have suffered from crippling and annoying power outages which is managed by turning off some electricity points as well as having two or three generators onsite every raceday, just to keep everything running.”
“The upgrades will make the raceday experience at the track even more enjoyable for trainers, owners, punters, jockeys and other racing participants.”
“It will also help improve the safety for staff, volunteers and visitors to especially when hosting big events such as weddings.”
Warialda Jockey Club President Andrew Phillips said that the new power supply would move the club into the 21st century.
“Without it we could not operate properly within occupational health and safety requirements,” Mr Phillips said.
“Money will be spent on upgrading the power supply, including a new and improved transformer, which will give us a bigger supply as well as underground power running through the bar, secretary’s office, stewards room and canteen.
“The grant means that we can move forwards and offer the community a once-a-year event to drag everyone together and offer a lovely environment for a celebration.
“It will be good to have cold drinks, a computer that works, race day broadcasting that doesn’t falter and being able to run lights and music at the same time at night.”
The Warialda Racecourse hosts a number of important community events including Lions Club night of fireworks, weddings, 21st birthdays and race days. The project is expected to be completed within six months using a local electrician and contractors.
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