The Townsville Turf Club is poised for a significant transformation as plans for 92 new on-course stables at Cluden Park have been approved as part of a $10 million project.
This development marks another milestone in the ongoing enhancement of the facility, further solidifying its position as a premier racing destination in North Queensland.
The project, co-funded by the Queensland government’s Racing Infrastructure Fund ($7.8 million) and Racing Queensland ($2.2 million), will see the construction of five barns housing the new stables adjacent to the racecourse’s back straight.
In addition to the stables, the upgrade will include new feed rooms, wash-down bays, and horse exercise machines.
Improvements to infrastructure are not limited to equine facilities.
The project also encompasses enhanced road access and sealed parking, addressing the needs of both participants and spectators.
Construction is scheduled to commence in July 2024, with local contractor A Gabrielli Constructions at the helm.
The project is expected to create 50 local construction jobs, providing a boost to the local economy. Completion is anticipated in early 2025.
This latest development builds upon a series of improvements made to Cluden Park since 2015, including 100 new tie-up stalls, a refurbished steward tower, and a new irrigated fibre sand training track.
These enhancements reflect the growing strength of Townsville’s racing industry, which contributed over $75 million to the local economy in 2022-23 — a remarkable 142 per cent increase since 2015.
Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace emphasised the project’s significance, stating: “Racing in North Queensland continues to thrive, and this new infrastructure at Cluden Park will ensure [the] industry can keep pace with the growing demand for facilities.”
She added that the project would benefit the 2,700 racing participants in the Townsville region.
Townsville Turf Club Chairman Geoff Weeks welcomed the announcement, highlighting the project’s potential to enhance the club’s reputation.
“This stabling project will add to the club’s reputation as being a destination training facility for North Queensland-based participants,” Weeks said.
He noted that the new stables and modern amenities would make Cluden Park’s facilities among the most sought-after in North Queensland.
Racing Queensland CEO Jason Scott underscored the strategic importance of the project, stating: “This project forms a part of RQ’s strategic objective to increase state-wide on-course stabling.
“We are delighted to assist in delivering this exciting project for the Townsville Turf Club.”
As Townsville’s racing industry continues to flourish, this $10 million investment in Cluden Park is set to further elevate the city’s status as a key player in Queensland’s racing landscape.
