Racing club will get equine pool, new stables in $6 million expansion

Murray Bridge is about to move one step closer to becoming the centre of South Australia’s horse racing industry.

On Saturday, the state government announced it would spend $5 million building up to 150 new stables and a 70-metre training pool at Murray Bridge Racing Club.

Thoroughbred Racing SA will contribute $1 million.

Combined with the new sand training track which opened at Gifford Hill on November 2, TRSA chief executive officer Nick Redin predicted the club’s facilities would entice trainers from around the state and over the border.

“This is another important piece of infrastructure for the future of South Australian racing,” he said.

“It puts more momentum behind Murray Bridge as an elite training centre and provides further incentive for trainers and owners to expand the horse population in South Australia.

“When combined with the prize money increases and (SA Breeders and Owners Incentive Scheme) changes that will come into effect on the first of December, we believe this helps send a strong message about growth to the racing community.”

TRSA chairman Rob Rorrison said the Murray Bridge development would create an estimated $63 million in economic value to the state over its first five years.

It would also create 105 jobs, either in construction or an ongoing basis.

“This will give both existing and new trainers a new option in the state,” he said.

“It is a key part of growing horse numbers in South Australia which, in turn, will drive further investment and growth in the industry.”

Club chairman John Leahy agreed that Murray Bridge’s reputation was already rising around the nation.

“Since opening our new Gifford Hill facility last year, we have already seen a significant increase in awareness from trainers from around SA and interstate,” he said.

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