The Nationals WA have condemned the likely cancellation of the 2025 Kalgoorlie Race Round,
describing it as a monumental failure and a devastating blow to the Kalgoorlie-Boulder
community and economy.
Nationals WA candidate for Kalgoorlie, Tony Herron, criticised the disastrous deal struck
between mining company Lynas and the former City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Council, which saw
a significant portion of the City’s water sold to Lynas.
As a result, community groups like the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club have been left high and
dry, without access to affordable water, making it impossible to maintain the track to required
racing standards.
“This is the worst deal in Western Australian history,” Mr Herron said.
“The decision to prioritise corporate interests over community needs has stripped our region of
the resources needed to support events like the Kalgoorlie Race Round.”
Mr Herron said the Racing Club had previously relied on low-cost water provided by the City,
however, following the Lynas deal, there is no water available for the Club’s use.
“The Club’s only long-term solutions—such as additional water storage or transitioning to
more water-efficient turf—are still years away, leaving no viable option to save the 2025 event,”
“The Kalgoorlie Race Round generates $54.5 million in economic activity and supports 430 fulltime jobs. Allowing this event to simply fall by the wayside is completely unacceptable and
would have a devastating impact on the local economy and community.” Mr Herron said.
Mr Herron and State Opposition Leader Shane Love MLA, met with representatives from the
Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racing Club and Racing and Wagering WA in Kalgoorlie today, vowing that
The Nationals will fight tooth and nail to ensure this event is saved.
Mr Love said the Cook Labor Government must immediately intervene to secure the 2025
Race Round and deliver the support the Kalgoorlie-Boulder community desperately needs.
“This can’t wait until after the State Election. The Cook Labor Government must act now to
guarantee the resources needed to keep this iconic event alive,” Mr Love said.
“Racing is deeply embedded in the history, economy, and spirit of the Goldfields, and the loss
of the Race Round would have ripple effects, undermining the viability of other events in
Coolgardie, Leonora, Laverton, and Esperance.”
