The transformation of the Townsville Turf Club is poised to continue with close to 100 on-course stables set to be built at Cluden Park.
The on-course stables, located on the back straight of the racecourse, will also deliver ancillary services including feed rooms, wash down bays and horse walkers, as well as road access and sealed parking.
In total, the $10 million project will deliver 92 stables across five barns, whilst creating more than 50 jobs during construction.
A $7.8 million contribution will be accessed via the Racing Infrastructure Fund, with the project currently in design through local contractor A Gabrielli Constructions.
Racing Minister Grace Grace said racing in North Queensland continues to thrive, and this latest project would ensure the industry kept up with the demand for stabling facilities in the region.
“Racing in North Queensland continues to thrive and this new infrastructure at Cluden Park will ensure industry can keep pace with the growing demand for infrastructure,” she said.
“More and more trainers are choosing to race in the Sunshine State and we are building the facilities to accommodate them.
“We’ve already delivered new stabling on the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, and Townsville is next in line.
“This project will be music to the ears of the 2,700 racing participants in the Townsville region, who are now on track for an even brighter future.
“It’s also great news for local jobs and the local economy, with the project set to support more than 50 jobs throughout the construction phase.”
Cluden Park’s facilities continue to be enhanced, with a new fibre sand track completed at the end of 2023.
In recent years, the Club has also taken receipt of 100 new raceday stalls alongside new jockey facilities.
Townsville Turf Club Chairman Geoff Weeks said this announcement was warmly welcomed by the club and its stakeholders.
“This stabling project will add to the club’s reputation as being a destination training facility for North Queensland-based participants,” Mr Weeks said.
“Having new stables and the modern amenities that come as a part of the project will allow more trainers access to what will be some of the most sought-after facilities in North Queensland.
“With our new fibre sand track, the new stables are set to add to the region’s allure.”
Racing Queensland CEO Jason Scott this project forms a part of RQ’s strategic objective to increase state-wide on-course stabling.
“Increasing the number of on-course stables across the state has been a priority of RQ’s over recent years, and we are delighted to assist in delivering this exciting project for the Townsville Turf Club,” Mr Scott said.
“Presently, approximately 120 horses are in work at Cluden Park, with the delivery of this stabling facility expected to create further on-course training opportunities for local participants.”