STAWELL racecourse and other tracks in the region will soon be the beneficiaries of joint government and racing industry funding for new racecourse aeravators.
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Member for Western Victoria, Simon Ramsay, made the announcement last week.
An aeravator is a piece of equipment attached to a tractor which rolls over the surface of the track, breaking up the ground and making a hard surface much more forgiving and safer.
"The new aeravator, to be based at Stawell and shared by racecourses in the region, will improve safety for both horses and jockeys," Mr Ramsay said.
"By helping to improve the track surface and creating optimum conditions for racing. It also reduces the risk of abandoned race meetings and the significant costs to clubs and racing participants associated with such cancellations.
"Racing is an important part of the social and economic life of the local region so this joint funding is very welcome," Mr Ramsay said.
Country Racing Victoria Chief Executive, Scott Whiteman said that Racing Victoria and Country Racing Victoria welcomed the Victorian Coalition Government's decision to assist with the purchase of five new aeravators to be distributed around Victoria.
"These aeravators will be strategically located across the state and used by all clubs within their zone. These machines will ensure that venues will have the best opportunity to present their tracks to the best possible standard on raceday," Mr Whiteman said.
"The softer soil profile improves the traction under foot for a galloping horse, reducing the risk of slipping and any injury to horse or jockey arising from that."
The Coalition Government has provided $58,545 towards the purchase of the five aeravators through its Victorian Racing Industry Fund, with Racing Victoria and Country Racing Victoria contributing the balance of the total cost of $117,091.
Liberal candidate for Ripon, Louise Staley, said the Victorian Coalition Government is a strong supporter of country racing and is committed to further developing the economic and social benefits arising from the racing industry.
"The racing industry provides an economic benefit of $940 million to regional Victoria including nearly 10,000 full-time jobs and the direct participation of more than 40,000 people," Ms Staley said.
"The Victorian Government's $79.5 million Victorian Racing Industry Fund, derived from unclaimed dividends and on-course wagering taxes, is critical to growing these jobs and economic benefits."