$1m state government stimulus for Moree Race Club

Major repair and upgrade works will restore the grandstand to full use after 'concrete cancer' weakened its structure and reduced its user capacity, causing safety concerns.

Upgrades to the steel and concrete grandstand will include paving, balustrades, steel columns, sewer lines, and seating sections, as well as replacement of adjacent retaining walls, the installation of disabled access and a new toilet block.

Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and Deputy Premier Paul Toole were there to check-in on the progress with works undertaken by Tamworth-based company Shay Brennan Constructions who won the contract to deliver the project.

Mr Marshall said a significant amount of planning had been undertaken since the grant was awarded, to ensure the club again had a fit-for-purpose grandstand which met the latest National Construction Code standards.

"Racing is a major social event and also a regional tourism drawcard for the town so this investment will help stimulate the local economy, while providing residents and visitors with a first-class view of its track and racing action," he said.

"Horse racing has a long history in the local area with the first Moree Cup held 140 years ago in 1881 and about half a dozen races hosted by Moree Race Club in an average year."

Mr Toole said everyone loved a day at the races.

"Now that great day out will come with on-course comfort to match in the Northern Tablelands," he said.

"These upgrades will give Moree Race Club the facilities it deserves and make the race day experience at the track even more enjoyable for trainers, owners, punters, jockeys and other racing participants.

"These new facilities will draw even more people to town for a day at the track which means more money spent in local businesses at a time when we are focused on rebuilding regional economies."

The funding for the project was provided by Crown Lands' COVID-19 stimulus program in 2020.