Purchase by RacingNSW of Moruya Racecourse.
The Board of the Moruya Jockey Club strongly supports the purchase by RacingNSW of the Moruya Racecourse. The Board received overwhelming written support for the purchase from members, other patrons, trainers and connections.
In many meetings with senior managers and the CEO. of RacingNSW, it was explained that the purchase of the Moruya Racecourse by RacingNSW would guarantee the future of Thoroughbred racing in Moruya and the certainty of investment in racing infrastructure and upgrades where necessary.
Moruya Racecourse has benefitted from significant financial and intellectual support from RacingNSW over many years and is recognised by trainers, connections, industry experts and the public as one of the best country racecourses in NSW.
Members of the Board of Moruya Jockey Club bring a range of skills, experience and contacts to the table and together we present a united, progressive management group which works very successfully with RacingNSW, ensuring that the transition to new ownership will be smooth and mutually beneficial.
Mr. Kennedy has provided information on recent developments in Thoroughbred racing in Moruya and in the south east more generally. These are impressive figures and show the commitment of RacingNSW to increase the significance of the Moruya Racecourse as a racing and training complex.
Mr. Gandy in his previous presentation to you said that the Board had identified essential works totalling $1,500,000 required in the next 18 months. Moruya Jockey Club cannot fund this under existing arrangements, and the Board began discussions with RacingNSW which had released its Strategic Plan outlining its vision and financial support for country race clubs.
The Board has positioned the Moruya Jockey Club as a community club, making our facilities available to community groups for non-racing functions. On our own and in partnership with Rotary, we have donated over $120,000 to charities and worthy groups in the Eurobodalla over the past five years.
Our race day crowds are well above those of comparable country clubs and even some larger centres, and it is interesting to note that all age groups are well represented. Many seniors are regular attendees at race meetings in Moruya, using the races as a great social occasion at which they meet friends and relatives. Whole family groups can be seen enjoying the day and this ensures that young people will grow up with a love of racing and the social opportunities it provides.
To continue our contributions to the community and to provide modern suitable facilities for all demographics of our society the Moruya Jockey Club needs ongoing financial support and the Board believes that this will come with the purchase by RacingNSW of the Moruya Racecourse.
Peter Atkinson. Chairman, Moruya Jockey Club.
