The Palaszczuk Government has today announced a $31.5 million commitment to the multimillion-dollar Gold Coast Turf Club redevelopment.
Racing Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the project would include an all-weather synthetic track, a full refurbishment of the racing surfaces, lights and the development of a tunnel.
"Most importantly, the redevelopment is odds on to support about 330 jobs during the construction phase alone," he said.
"Because we responded so quickly when the pandemic became a health issue, we are now well placed to roll out our economic recovery plan.
"The creation of hundreds of jobs in the construction phase alone will feed strategically into that plan.
"There are already almost 1100 jobs on the Gold Coast alone that depend on the racing industry, from trainers and jockeys through to hospitality workers, farriers and equine nurses.
"The Gold Coast is one of Queensland's most magnificent tourism drawcards and the turf club is already home to the internationally renowned Magic Millions Carnival, including the January yearling sale and its race day," he said.
"Now it needs a turf club to match, which is exactly what a re-elected Palaszczuk Government will be able to deliver."
Gold Coast Turf Club chair Brett Cook said the announcement was fantastic news for the Club.
"It's something we have been trying to see accomplished for more than ten years," he said.
"This will be a massive boost not just for the Club, but for tourism, jobs and the local economy.
"We couldn't be happier as a Club to see the project progressing."
Already, $1.5 million has been provided for feasibility and design work and the Gold Coast Turf Club is contributing $5 million, while the remaining $31.5 million will come from the industry-funded Racing Infrastructure Fund, financed from the exclusive wagering license fee paid to the State and allocated to approved projects.
