Thoroughbred racing in Armidale and across the state has received a huge boost after the NSW Government passed legislation to match NSW’s wagering tax rates with Victoria.
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Minimum prizemoney for Country TAB meetings, including Armidale, will go to $20,000 a race, a rise of 33 per cent or $5000.
Armidale Jockey Club secretary Jim Dedes said it was an exciting time for the racing industry.
“It’s going to make racing stronger right through,” he said.
“There is going to be better horses in better races.
“The prize money is only going to attract more owners to the industry as well.
“You are going to have a pretty good horse to win any race from now on.”
Dedes said they are preparing for a flood of horses from provincial tracks in southern Queensland and NSW.
“We are already starting to see an influx of horses from provincial tracks,” he said.
“We had horses come from Wyong and Gosford to our last meeting.”
Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall also welcomed the announcement.
“This will mean more jobs, larger crowds and help to grow our local racing industry,” Mr Marshall said.
“Racing is an important part of many communities across the Northern Tablelands – everyone loves to get to the races and enjoy a great day out socialising and having fun.
“Local trainers, jockeys, owners and punters have been crying out for increased prize money to invigorate the industry and the benefits will flow to the whole community.”
Mr Marshall said the increased prize money at Armidale was part of a $21 million state-wide package to boost country and provincial racing.
