Two large-scale racecourse upgrades will put Bendigo on the map as one of Victoria’s top racing destinations after a significant investment from the Allan Labor Government.

The Bendigo Jockey Club will replace the track with new turf thanks to a $530,000 contribution from the Victorian State Government, with the current track to be replaced by 60,000 square metres of Kikuyu turf, widely used for racing due to its durability and fast recovery rate, creating a more consistent surface for training and racing. 

The new surface at the Bendigo Jockey Club - which is the home base for 150 horses and 42 trainers - has been designed to improve drainage and future maintenance with the track experiencing 23 race meetings every year, making it one of the busiest country racing tracks in Victoria.

Works will start straight after the Bendigo Cup on October 29 with an expected finish by April 2026, following three to four weeks of installation and subsequent growth period.

Bendigo Jockey Club CEO Paul Scullie says the new track is imperative for the safety of horses and jockeys.

“This new turf will solidify Bendigo’s place as a thriving hub for regional racing in Victoria and will prioritise the wellbeing of our horses and jockeys first and foremost,” he said.

The Bendigo Harness Racing Club will also undergo a $1.3 million LED lighting and technology system upgrade. The trots lighting upgrade will replace the club’s ageing system with 190 new LED lights which will last longer and are cheaper to run. Works are expected to be completed mid-next year.  

Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines believes the upgrades will be a major boost to the Victorian economy.

“Regional racing generates more than $1.17 billion for the Victorian economy and helps sustain 9,000 jobs in the regions,” he said. “That’s why we’re backing these Bendigo upgrades.” 

Story by Nick Creely/Pictures by Victorian State Government