Minister opens new harness racing facilities at Pinjarra, Waldron

Author: Terry Waldron
Published on: 11-May-2010

Construction of a new $2.9million pavilion at the Pinjarra Paceway is on track with a funding boost from the Liberal-National Government.

Racing and Gaming Minister Terry Waldron today launched the work in Pinjarra. He said it was an example of the Liberal-National Government’s Royalties for Regions Grant Scheme enabling decision making about regional infrastructure to be made by the local communities themselves.

“The racing industry supports many businesses and provides jobs and entertainment for thousands of West Australians,” he said.

“The construction of this pavilion will not only offer local employment, but provide ongoing business opportunities for those directly and indirectly involved in harness racing.”

Pinjarra Harness Racing Club patron and Murray-Wellington MLA Murray Cowper said, when completed early next year, the new pavilion would provide patrons and racing officials with a state-of-the-art facility.

“The old pavilion has served the club well, but thanks to funding support from Royalties for Regions and Racing and Wagering Western Australia, patrons can look forward to a new pavilion and a level of comfort and convenience not previously experienced,” Mr Cowper said.

The Pinjarra Paceway pavilion project is supported by the Peel Development Commission, through a $745,000 grant made possible by the Royalties for Regions Regional Grants Scheme; $1.065million from the State Government’s Regional Racecourse Infrastructure Grants Program; and $750,000 from Racing and Wagering Western Australia.

The Pinjarra Harness Racing Club will provide $370,555 from its own resources for a total project cost of more than $2.9million.

“I congratulate the club on their financial contribution, but more than that it is indicative of their overall commitment to harness racing in the region,” the Minister said.

Minister's office - 9213 7200