Mildura Racing Club’s racecourse surface will stay in top condition all year round with a new irrigation system powered by a new solar energy setup, thanks to funding from the Victorian Government.
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula announced the Victorian Government is allocating more than $154,000 from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund for the two projects, with the club contributing more than $101,000, and Country Racing Victoria and Racing Victoria adding more than $53,000.
The current irrigation system is energy-intensive and the variable water pressure can lead to inconsistent watering and an uneven racing surface.
The upgrade includes the creation of a new dam for settling sediment, increased storage capacity in the two existing dams, and a new pump shed.
This will improve the surface of the course through more effective and consistent water distribution. It will also reduce water usage, maintenance and repairs.
The second project will see the installation of 124 solar panels on three buildings at the club, which will generate electricity to run its facilities on the course, including the new pumping system.
This will save the club up to $36,000 a year in electricity costs and significantly reduce its carbon footprint.
The projects will create eight jobs during construction, with work expected to be finished in September.
Since December 2014, the Government has invested more than $456,000 to support racing infrastructure projects and thoroughbred racing events at Mildura Racing Club.
The thoroughbred racing industry in regional Victoria generates more than $715 million for the economy and helps sustain more than 6,100 full-time-equivalent jobs.
Source: Vic Government