Works to bolster two race clubs in the electorate have been given the green light with the Crisafulli Government awarding more than $450,000 in funding for vital infrastructure upgrades under the Racing Queensland’s Country Club Asset Funding program.

During the funding announcement this week Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said Burdekin Race Club and Bowen Turf Club’s success had ensured country racing remained at the heart of the Home Hill and Bowen communities.

“Both the Burdekin Growers Race Day and the Bowen Cup have cemented themselves into the North’s social calendar drawing thousands of visitors to our regions and boosting local economies,” Mr Last said.

“Racing Queensland’s Country Club Asset Funding program provides support towards infrastructure repairs, maintenance and asset replacement to ensure our country race clubs can continue to host the race days that become calendar highlights each year.”

"By supporting the investment into new jockey and steward's rooms at the Burdekin Race Club we provide opportunities to host more of our favourite race days right here at Home Hill."

The Burdekin Race Club will receive $365,000 while the Bowen Turf Club will receive $88,000 with clubs also investing co-contributions to bring the projects to fruition. The commitment forms part of the Government's broader commitment to the industry through The Next Lap: A plan for the future of Queensland racing.

“The Bowen and Burdekin race clubs are among 33 country race clubs in regional Queensland to receive funding, delivering jobs, infrastructure improvements and community benefits in regional areas," Mr Last said. 

“Recent reports show the racing industry in Queensland has generated more than $2.5billion in value added contribution with more than 50 per cent directly benefitting regional economies. It is why I'm proud to back our local race clubs' initiatives to invest in the infrastructure and maintenance needed to continue to host our favourite local race days well into the future."