Member for Coffs Harbour Andrew Fraser today announced a further $500,000 for the Coffs Harbour Racing Club.

This is to upgrade drainage of the course proper at Coffs Harbour racecourse.

Mr Fraser said the upgrade of drainage at Coffs Harbour follows funding for the recently completed sand fast work track at the Coffs Harbour racecourse.

“The upgrade of the drainage on the course proper will greatly improve the capacity of the racecourse to handle heavy rain,” Mr Fraser said.

“Works will include both sand slit drainage and sand grooving of the entire width of the course proper. “This will both save race meetings that would otherwise be lost to wet weather as well as present the racing surface in better condition following rain,” Mr Fraser said.

The total value of works funded by Racing NSW from accumulated race fields fees at Coffs Harbour will be upwards of $1.2 million.

Racing NSW Chief Executive, Peter V’landys AM underlined the importance of racing at Coffs Harbour to racing in the region. “Coffs Harbour is vital to racing on the North Coast and these drainage works on the course proper will ensure that the racecourse is more conducive to competitive racing and safer for jockey and horse.

These works will further underpin its standing and confidence among punters. “Along with the recent upgrades to the sand training track, these works will significantly boost racing at Coffs Harbour and in the region,” Mr V’landys said.

Coffs Harbour Racing Club Chairman Mr Alan Johnson also welcomed the announcement. “Coffs Harbour is centrally placed within the North Coast and these works will be vital in ensuring the Club is able to race and present the best possible surface,” Mr Johnson said.

The Coffs Harbour Race Club will also implement a new governance model including, the appointment of independent directors to complement elected members of the Board.