New Harness Racetrack Opens in Melton
The opening of the 1040-metre racetrack at Tabcorp Park marks a promising new era for the community and for the harness racing industry in Victoria.
Tabcorp Park is the first new racetrack to open since Geelong’s Beckley Park in 1978 and will host 55 race meetings in its first year.
Visitors will benefit from a range of modern entertainment and leisure facilities at the new venue including a 41-room four-star motel, conference and function rooms, bistro and sports bar, gaming area and TAB.
Up to 5,500 spectators will be able to enjoy racing at Tabcorp Park, with special viewing bays in the horse stalls building giving the public a chance to be close to the action.
The Victorian Government provided more than $450,000 funding to support the project through the Racing Industry Development Program.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Racing Rob Hulls congratulated Harness Racing Victoria for its vision and commitment to developing a metropolitan home for Victoria’s harness racing industry.
“The government is proud to support this fantastic new venue, which will allow the harness racing industry to hold the reins and steer its own course for the future,” Mr Hulls said.
Mr Hulls said Tabcorp Park was a state-of-the-art racetrack with a host of innovative safety features to protect horses and their drivers.
“Tabcorp Park joins Bendigo as the racetrack with the highest camber on its turns in the nation. This camber, combined with the big 110-metre radius turns, reduces the stress on horses’ legs and aims to reduce injuries, prolong careers and promote speed.”
For more information about Victoria’s racing industry, visit the Racing section of the Department of Justice website.