Racing Minister Grace Grace has announced that applications for the new Country Club Asset Funding program (CCAF) are now open.
Following the introduction of the Palaszczuk Government’s Betting Tax reform – which returns 80% of receipts back to industry – the new CCAF stream will replace the Country Racing Program, which delivered more than 300 projects since its inception in 2018.
CCAF provides $3 million per year for country racing club infrastructure repairs, as well as maintenance and asset replenishment as assessed on a needs basis.
In the Far North Queensland region, almost 30 projects across nine clubs were approved under CRP over its five-year existence.
This includes the delivery of a half-million-dollar track renovation at Innisfail Turf Club and a running rail replacement at Mareeba Turf Club worth $91,746, as well as the $144,000 construction of a stewards tower at Atherton which is currently being scoped.
Minister Grace said the new CCAF would be a natural progression from the Country Racing Program in delivering great jobs, infrastructure improvements and community benefits across the state.
"The Palaszczuk Government backs country racing because we know how much it contributes to the social and economic life of so many regional communities in Queensland," Minister Grace said.
“Since 2018 our previous Country Racing Program grants has supported over 300 infrastructure projects at clubs in every corner of the state.
“I am delighted that the new Country Club Asset Funding available will provide greater support for clubs to meet their needs going forward and continue to support hundreds of jobs across regional Queensland."
Applications close June 5, 2023.
Click here for more information on Country Club Asset Funding.