At first glance Newcastle Harness Racing Club general manager Tony Drew said it was a “win-win” situation for the industry despite not featuring in the new Broadmeadow sport and entertainment precinct plan.
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Drew got a look at the NSW government’s concept on Wednesday and knows, if approved, the days of harness racing at the current Newcastle track are numbered.
And while Drew said sports minister Stuart Ayres, who was at McDonald Jones Stadium for the unveiling, had assured the club they wouldn’t be “forced out” the need to find an alternative venue had now become more of a reality.
But the thought of producing a “purpose-built facility” in the “heartland of the Hunter Valley” had Drew optimistic about the future, over short and long terms, of the sport in this region.
“Up until yesterday we had no confirmation that [precinct] was going ahead, but now we understand that if the concept plan is adopted we won’t be here,” Drew said.
“Therefore alternate sites will be looked at, but in conjunction with NSW government, Venues NSW and one of the leading drivers Harness Racing NSW.
“It’s a great opportunity for the harness racing industry in the Hunter Valley to have a new complex that includes a training centre, which is most essential now. We just haven’t got the room to expand here [in Newcastle].”
Fairhall Park at East Maitland has been floated as a possible option. Drew brushed aside rumours but said a location between Maitland, Cessnock and Newcastle would be “ideal”.
Drew also said he was confident about a move based on similar exercises being undertaken elsewhere.
“It’s all part of Harness Racing NSW’s regionalisation plan,” he said. “Bathurst is complete, they’ve purchased the showground at Tamworth to upgrade that facility and turned the first bit of soil at Wagga.”
NHRC hold a lease until 2027 and have raced at the paceway since 1989.
The precinct plan has a three-month community consultation period.
Drew said the concept was “good for the town”.
Meanwhile, racing continues at Newcastle on Saturday and Monday.
The club will host meetings each Saturday night from this weekend until October 21.
