The re-development of the Ipswich Turf Club is on track to be delivered in full, including new tie-up stalls and a much-needed carpark, Racing Minister Stirling Hinchliffe has announced.
Mr Hinchliffe said that stewards and jockeys were able to access the $24.8 million project’s new purpose-built function centre for the first time this week.
“The new racing amenities include an expanded female jockeys’ room that replaces the cramped and outdated quarters at Bundamba,” he said.
“To help with race day operations, stewards will have high-tech equipment and there’s also a dedicated media centre.
“The Ipswich Turf Club is a critical component of the state’s racing infrastructure – hosting almost 50 race meetings last year and serving as a training facility.
“With more than 20,000 people attending the recent Ipswich Cup, it is one of Queensland’s most popular race days and a vibrant hub for the community.”
Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard welcomed the Palaszczuk Government’s injection of funding.
“It’s incredibly encouraging to see the progress that’s being made on this much-anticipated upgrade to our turf club,” she said.
“The Ipswich Turf Club is a rich part of our history and now, with the upgrade, an exciting and important part of our future.”
Member for Bundamba Jo-Ann Miller said the club would be a fantastic asset for the region.
“This project will help future-proof the Ipswich Turf Club and will continue to be a facility enjoyed by thousands of Queenslanders each year,” she said.
Racing Queensland CEO Brendan Parnell said he was pleased that the stewards and jockeys had new amenities.
“The function centre will provide the club with one of the region’s premier hospitality venues and the capacity to increase their non-race day revenue,” he said.
“In addition to the stewards and jockeys’ rooms, the new plant deck and grandstand roof covering has been installed, while the new forecourt has also been opened and made available to the public.”
The project will be completed with widening works to T.L. Cooney Avenue and replacement of the decades-old irrigation infrastructure and drainage.