The scheduled redevelopment of the Gold Coast Turf Club is one step closer to commencing today, with expressions of interest opening on the $37.5 million project which will bring night racing to Aquis Park by 2024.
The Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, announced in April that the club would undergo a multi-million dollar rebuild that includes the introduction of lights, an all-weather track and in-field tunnel to enhance equine welfare.
This latest phase of the planning stage is set to provide those interested with added information about the project, the tender process and a procurement timetable.
“Investing in infrastructure and supporting events-based tourism is an important part of Queensland's plan for economic recovery from COVID-19,” Racing Minister Grace Grace said.
“The redevelopment is expected to create 325 jobs during the construction phase and will add more than $100 million to the local economy.
“The Gold Coast racing industry already supports almost 1100 local jobs from trainers and jockeys through to hospitality workers, farriers and equine nurses.
“This project will transform Aquis Park into a world-class facility and Australia's best night racing track.
“Work at the Turf Club will see the racing surfaces completely modernised including the installation of an all-weather synthetic track, along with the latest technology in lights for night racing; an in-field tunnel to provide increased equine welfare and health and safety benefits; and increased commercial opportunities.”
After the completion of the expressions of interest, Racing Queensland is set to select a shortlist of respondents who will go to a request for tender in October, with work scheduled to begin next May following the club's Hollindale Stakes meeting.
The all-weather track is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2022, with the installation of lights and reconstruction of the turf course to begin in the following year, which should see racing recommence at the “world-class facility” by 2024.
The Gold Coast Turf Club hosts Queensland's metropolitan meeting on Saturday with the running of the $125,000 Pink Ribbon Cup, which supports the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Tony Gollan's talented four-year-old mare Miami Fleiss is an overwhelming favourite in the 1300m feature, currently at $1.40 with online bookmakers.