September 2, 2016
Rosehill Gardens racecourse in Sydney’s West will rival Royal Randwick, Flemington and even Royal Ascot with the official opening of the $28 million face-lift.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Racing Troy Grant and Australian Turf Club CEO Darren Pearce launched the upgraded JR Fleming Grandstand and other facilities today, as the Sydney Spring Carnival gets under way.
The NSW Government contributed $24 million to the project that has improved spectator access, seating and function capacity and a new menu.
The upgrade includes a new multi-purpose function space, The Hive, where the bar serves up cocktails and food incorporating honey that is cultivated on premises.
Mr Grant said this upgrade has improved every aspect of the race experience at Rosehill Gardens, which has hosted horse racing for more than 131 years.
“This Government is delivering a $235m boost to the racing industry over the next five years and we will see more upgrades like this to racing tracks across the state.
“Thoroughbred racing is booming in NSW and is embodied by our premier racing series The Championships, which has attracted record crowds to country and city meetings.’’
Australian Turf Club Chief Executive Officer Darren Pearce said the Rosehill Gardens refurbishment was the start of a long-term strategy for racing and entertainment in the heart of Sydney.
“Rosehill Gardens is now one of the best facilities for thoroughbred racing anywhere in the world, and we aim to keep it at the front of the field,’’ Mr Pearce said.
“In future years, along with world-class racing, we want to see Rosehill Gardens play a central role as a major destination for people from across Sydney to enjoy the very best of sport, entertainment and hospitality.’’
The Sydney Spring Carnival was launched this week and Rosehill Gardens will play host to the first group 1 race of the carnival as part of the three-month festival of racing.