QLD Government announce financial contribution to Kilcoy revamp

Captain Parker
Captain Parker ridden by Gary Geran and trained by Kristie Clark Peoples winning at Kilcoy (photo: Darren Winningham).

KILCOY Racecourse will soon be expanded and reinvigorated after receiving $369,030 in funding the Queensland’s Government.

The development project is also being supported with $553,545 from Somerset Regional Council, bringing total funding to $922,575.

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said the development would help put Kilcoy racing on the map.

“Kilcoy is galloping forward after securing funding for a new racecourse grandstand and functions space, and enhanced spectator areas,” Mr Dick said.

“Council estimates eight jobs will be supported during the construction phase of the project, with potential for new jobs in the long-term off the back of greater attendance numbers.”

“Annual attendance at the racecourse and showgrounds complex has grown four per cent over the past two years, so it’s the right time to upgrade the old facilities and increase spectator capacity.

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“The works will breathe new life into Kilcoy’s highest profile recreation facility – improving functionality, appeal, accessibility and flood resistance across the grounds.”

Racing Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said, “Kilcoy Race Club will benefit immensely from these improvements, in terms of better facilities and increased financial sustainability.

“Provincial TAB clubs like Kilcoy that can attract more racegoers with new and improved facilities are in a strong position to improve their own financial bottom line.

“They’re also going to contribute to a more prosperous and resilient racing industry at a statewide level.”

Somerset Regional Council Mayor Graeme Lehmann said the Kilcoy Racecourse development would have measurable economic benefits for the region.

“It will help keep employees of local industry and their families living in the area as well as attracting visitors,” Mr Lehmann said.

“We want to sustain the four per cent annual growth in visitation as a way of broadening and expanding the local economic base beyond food production and processing.

“The project underpins the upgrading of Kilcoy Racecourse Complex from a non-TAB club to a Tier 1 provincial TAB club.

“This will create the opportunity for more televised race days, which will promote Kilcoy and Somerset to an Australia-wide audience.”

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