Infrastructure & Listed Purse Boosts for WA

Racing and Wagering WA’s annual funding for the next racing season comprises a commitment of $30 million to infrastructure and a prize money boost to Listed thoroughbred features. RWWA announced on Thursday that $10 million will be distributed to the 2021-22 three codes for racing, and another $30.7 million for infrastructure projects. According to thewest.com.au, it includes the redevelopment of the Bunbury Turf Club with new horse stalls, racing and training tracks, as well as a $2.5 million grant pool to allow race clubs to apply for financial assistance for various minor projects. Listed thoroughbred races will enjoy enhanced prize money to a minimum of $125,000 with plans to increase it to $150,000 for Bunbury, Pinjarra, Kalgoorlie, and the Northam Cup. One percent of prize money will be given to animal welfare initiatives on top of RWWA’s budget. Chief executive of RWWA, Ian Edwards, stated, “Throughout the current season we have continued to be faced with challenges with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, but as an industry we have remained resilient and maintained a solid financial position. As a result, we are pleased to once again deliver record funding levels to the industry for the 2021-22 racing season. Infrastructure funding is essential to ensure the ongoing viability of the industry, which is why RWWA will be heavily investing in key projects that will protect the continuation of racing into the future.”

Bunbury Turf Club (pic: bunburyturfclub.com.au)