Lark Hill racecourse potential raised

Rockingham could soon be home to the metropolitan area's second major thoroughbred racing venue if an independent study's recommendation to re-develop Lark Hill training complex is endorsed by Racing and Wagering WA.

GHD's report indicated Belmont's ageing facility would be replaced with a $40 million redevelopment of Lark Hill as part of a 40-year vision, which resonates with the State Government's desire to have only one major city racetrack. RWWA's Metropolitan Equine Asset Review Taskforce chairman Bob Pearson welcomed the report and encouraged industry people to voice their opinions before the board would consider endorsing it in October.

GHD principal project manager Peter Tilley said the 11-month investigation showed WA racing was "heavily over-capitalised" because venues were built to cater for more popular times, yet crowd numbers had dwindled.

He said Lark Hill was clearly the best option for an outer-city track and would cater better for the "hub" from Rockingham to Mandurah, where population was predicted to more than double to 1.6 million people by 2050.

Leading Serpentine-based trainer David Harrison, who trains his horses at Lark Hill, said he would race his horses at the facility if it was upgraded.

Mr Pearson said Lark Hill would require a "complete re-build" to be the metropolitan area's second facility, hosting regular weekend meets.

"It would be a transformation that would mean very few people would recognise it from what it is today," he said.

"The report highlights the necessity and benefits to have racing and training in the same area.

"The availability of on-course stabling will allow a new wave of trainers to enter the industry because stables and training will be at the same location."

Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels welcomed the findings of the report.

"Projects such as this will offer economic development opportunities and diverse local jobs in our area and the City is looking forward to working with Racing and Wagering WA and Perth's racing fraternity to investigate this exciting opportunity," he said.

WA Racing Representative Group chairman Michael Grant agreed a move to Lark Hill would require a complete track re-design which might not be the most cost-effective option for RWWA.

He was positive, however, that the report allowed the industry to consider its future and where it wanted to focus its attention.