Manning Valley Race Club: what funding updates will go towards

The Manning Valley Race Club will have a new home for horses on race day thanks to a $1.2 million cash boost. The funding announcement came on the eve of one of Port Macquarie’s most celebrated day’s – The Port Macquarie Cup.

The Port Macquarie Cup is on today

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There’s some happy hooves trotting about the Mid-North Coast this week, with thoroughbred racing receiving plenty of attention.

Member for Myall Lakes, Stephen Bromhead and Racing Minister, Kevin Anderson, yesterday pledged more than $1.2 million towards Manning Valley Race Club which will see the club’s ageing tie-up stalls ripped down and replaced.

The investment is being rolled out as part of the NSW Government’s COVID-19 stimulus package and will result in 21 new jobs for tradies in Myall Lakes.

Taree Race Club receiving a cheque for $1.2 million

“Racing has a long and proud history in the Myall Lakes electorate and the racing industry is significant to our local economy and sporting culture,” Mr Bromhead said.

“COVID-19 forced the Manning Valley Race Club to more than quarter attendance at their premier racing weekend Taree Cup.

“The blow to their biggest event of the year has impacted the clubs ability to fund much-needed infrastructure improvements, as such I am very pleased we have been able to work alongside the club during this time to secure funding for these vital works.

“This grant will help ensure our local racing industry remains sustainable and vibrant and attracts new participants once the pandemic passes.”

Manning Valley Race Club will receive new tie-up stalls

Mr Anderson said the NSW Government is proud to support racing infrastructure across regional NSW that helps build community engagement, provides employment and improves the livability of regional communities.

“As a strong supporter of regional racing, the NSW Nationals recognise the key role the regional tracks play in creating jobs and tourism as well as bringing communities together,” Mr Anderson said.

With the spring racing season well underway, there has never been a better time to head down to the track to support the Manning Valley Race Club and cheer on a local horse or two.

“The NSW thoroughbred industry is incredibly healthy and remains strong during the challenges of this unprecedented COVID pandemic, and with the support of the NSW Nationals is only set to get stronger.”

Attendance at the Port Cup has been capped. Picture: supplied

Yesterday’s funding announcement came on the eve of today’s Port Macquarie Cup – one of the most decorated events on the Port Macquarie social and sporting calendar.

Today, more than 500 people will be in attendance the event which under normal circumstances would draw upwards of 5000 people.

A number of COVID compliance measures, including limits on general public and owner’s attendance as well as general seating rules, are in force.

Due to the limited number of tickets available, there is also an entry limit of six owners per horse.

The eight-race program kicks off at 1.25pm with the running of the Port Macquarie Cup (race 7) to be held at 5:10pm.