04.02.11
Racing NSW
The NSW Government today announced the Australian Turf Club will officially start operating on Monday next week (7th February).
Gaming and Racing Minister Kevin Greene said the merger process between the Sydney Turf Club and the Australian Jockey Club has now been finalised.
“The creation of the Australian Turf Club Limited, NSW’s new major racing club, is one of the most significant developments in the history of NSW racing,” Mr Greene said.
“Finally, NSW has a strong and united metropolitan club to take the industry forward, to capitalise on opportunities for growth and development. We have completed an essential step to secure the ongoing viability of NSW racing.”
Mr Greene joined Chairman Elect John Cornish, CEO Elect Darren Pearce, Racing NSW Chief Executive Peter V'landys and Racing NSW Chairman Alan Brown at the announcement.
“Today is a day of celebration for our world-class racing industry and its 50,000 participants,” Mr Greene said. “NSW Government has secured a $174million funding package to renovate and revitalise Sydney’s most iconic tracks, Rosehill Gardens and Royal Randwick, as part of this major racing reform.
“This is an important opportunity for the industry and NSW economy, which benefits from the $1billion racing brings to the State each year,” he said.
Australian Turf Club chairperson John Cornish said the day celebrated a bringing together of a shared history of Sydney racing going back more than 200 years.
“And looking forward with a united vision we will see both Royal Randwick and Rosehill Gardens in a relationship which will be great for the industry,” Mr Cornish said.
“The physical benefits of merger will become apparent soon, when we commence the $150million redevelopment of Royal Randwick as well as $24million in improvements to Rosehill Gardens.”
Mr Greene thanked new ATC chairperson John Cornish, vice-chairperson Michael Crismale and chief executive Darren Pearce, for taking the helm at this time of immense excitement and change.
“I also wish to acknowledge that this tremendous accomplishment would not have been possible without the efforts of Bill Picken, Ron Finemore, Alan Brown, Peter V’landys and Michael Kenny.
“I look forward to watching the continued rise of NSW racing and the Australian Turf Club for years to come.”