QUEENSLAND'S premier racecourse Eagle Farm is track to re-open for racing on May 11 following a major refurbishment, Racing Minister Grace Grace said today in State Parliament.

Ms Grace said the refurbishment would deliver a much-needed track upgrade, improved public amenities and a giant in-field display screen.

 

The refurbishment, funded via the State Government’s Racing Infrastructure Fund, will see Eagle Farm up and running in time for Queensland’s main feature races over the Winter Racing Carnival.

“Since becoming Racing Minister, I’ve visited Eagle Farm several times to inspect the works going on there, and the progress is impressive,” she said.

“New turf on the course proper has been laid and the vehicular and pedestrian tunnels are receiving finishing touches.

“A new public concourse is being developed, to serve as a focal point on race days.

“And in a world-first, a new state-of-the-art infield stabling complex is also being developed, providing 400 stables and associated training and husbandry facilities.

“This is in addition to a new digital timing system which will be installed on course - giving punters access to state-of-the-art technology which tracks the progress of each runner.

“A giant infield screen - believed to be one of the world’s largest at 44 metres in length - will also be installed, showing every race live.

“I want to congratulate Brisbane Racing Club Chairman Neville Bell, his Board and CEO Dave Whimpey for the outstanding job they’re doing upgrading our premier racecourse.

“It will deliver greater returns to the racing industry - benefiting owners, trainers, jockeys, stable staff and race clubs throughout Queensland.”

Under the Eagle Farm Masterplan, BRC has been granted approval to dispose of the parcels of land which were formerly home to horse stables.

“This has enabled the club to enter into a joint venture arrangement with Mirvac to develop the Eagle Farm Residential Precinct,” Ms Grace said.

“And that means we’re going to see the delivery of over 1,000 trackside apartments alongside an exciting food and beverage, and retail destination.”

Ms Grace said figures show that since Eagle Farm was taken offline in August 2014 - together with unusually high wet weather - racing turnover diminished by 6 per cent for the 2014/15 year.

“To say we are excited about its return and important role it plays in wagering is an understatement,” she said.

 

“The Eagle Farm upgrade will enable our premier racecourse to continue attracting leading gallopers from Queensland, interstate and overseas – while giving racegoers a better race day experience.”