Lavish grandstand a favourite with punters at Darwin Cup Day
DARWIN Turf Club’s new grandstand had its biggest day yet at the Darwin Cup on Monday, hosting hundreds of racegoers throughout the day to widely rave reviews
Northern Territory
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DARWIN Turf Club’s new grandstand had its biggest day yet at the Darwin Cup on Monday, hosting hundreds of racegoers throughout the day to widely rave reviews.
Voting with their feet, punters flocked to the $12 million venue for the chance to enjoy a full view of the track in airconditioned comfort and, on the top floor, take advantage of the fine dining options on offer.
Jodi Linnett, a keen racegoer who attends the Darwin Cup every year, said the new grandstand had lifted the overall standard of the event.
“I think it’s a sensational facility,” she said.
“I think it takes us to the next level, as far as competing with events around Australia (is concerned).
“It’s beautiful, and it just adds a little bit of a more spacious feel.
“To be able to see the whole track spanning the racecourse is wonderful.”
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Racegoer Sally Carnesi said the grandstand gave patrons a new outlook for racing action.
“I’d say it adds a bit of class or refinement,” she said.
“We’ve got the option to come here now, whereas we didn’t before, and we’d have to sit outside if we decided to come, so I think that’s fantastic.”
Ms Carnesi said she had been so won over by the venue that she would be a repeat visitor in future.
“Honestly, I’d come here every year,” she said.
“It’s relaxed and, especially with a group of friends, it’s a really nice atmosphere.”
Her friend Kylie Twomey agreed.
“It’s a great venue, it has an amazing view — what’s not to like?” she said.
Darwin Turf Club chairman Brett Dixon said the grandstand had been popular throughout the Cup Carnival.
“We have not heard a bad word about it. The responses we’ve been getting are first class,” he said.
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“Most people are saying what a great facility it is, not just for racing, but for Darwin city itself.
“It was something that’s been sought after, something that’s been missing for many years, and it’s been well received.”
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