Draft Report
Prepared for Wodonga City Council
Prepared by: RecRelief/ SGL Consulting Group Pty Ltd in Association with Michael
Smith and Associates Landscape Architects and Wodonga City Council
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan 19 November 2012
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page i Commercial in Confidence
T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S
1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................... 3
1.1 PROJECT SCOPE ..................................................................................................................... 3
2 2008 MASTER PLAN REVIEW ........................................................................................................... 3
2.1 LAND OWNERSHIP – WODONGA RACECOURSE ................................................................. 6
3 SITE REVIEW ..................................................................................................................................... 7
3.1 LAND OWNERSHIP AND TENANCY ........................................................................................ 7 3.1.1 Tenant Arrangements ............................................................................................................ 8 3.1.2 Management of the Precinct .............................................................................................. 8 3.1.3 Central Booking System ......................................................................................................... 9 3.1.4 Vision for the Precinct ............................................................................................................ 9
4 MARKET RESEARCH AND CONSULTATION .................................................................................. 11
4.1 SUMMARY OF KEY STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS .................................................................. 11
4.2 ISSUES AND TRENDS FOR THE PRECINCT ............................................................................. 14 4.2.1 Sport and Recreation Trends .............................................................................................. 14 4.2.2 General Leisure Trends Impacting on Sport and Recreation Participation and
Facilities ................................................................................................................................................ 14 4.2.3 Comparison of National/State Sport and Recreation Participation Trends .............. 15
4.3 DEMOGRAPHIC REVIEW ...................................................................................................... 16 4.3.1 Current Population Profile ................................................................................................... 17 4.3.2 Ethnicity ................................................................................................................................... 18 4.3.3 Education ............................................................................................................................... 18 4.3.4 Income .................................................................................................................................... 19
5 RECOMMENDED MASTER PLAN STRATEGIC DIRECTION ............................................................ 20
5.1 ACCESS AND EGRESS .......................................................................................................... 20 5.1.1 Improved Front Entrance on Hamilton Smith Drive ........................................................ 20 5.1.2 Richardson Street Entry ........................................................................................................ 21 5.1.3 Formalise the North West Corner Car Park ...................................................................... 21
5.2 CATTLE YARD USAGE ............................................................................................................ 22
5.3 EXHIBITION CENTRE .............................................................................................................. 22
5.4 NELL WILSON PAVILION IMPROVEMENTS ........................................................................... 23
5.5 BULL RING.............................................................................................................................. 23
5.6 BULL SHED .............................................................................................................................. 24
5.7 TURF CLUB AREA AND RACECOURSE .................................................................................. 24
5.8 WODONGA SHOW SOCIETY LAND (INCLUDING BOB PRITCHARD ARENA) .................... 24
5.9 INFIELD AND SPORTS GROUNDS.......................................................................................... 25
5.10 CRITERIUM CYCLING CIRCUIT/CYCLOCROSS ............................................................... 25
5.11 ON SITE HORSE TRAINERS PRECINCT ............................................................................... 26
5.12 GENERAL RESERVE IMPROVEMENTS ................................................................................ 26 5.12.1 Children’s Playground...................................................................................................... 26 5.12.2 Event Office ....................................................................................................................... 26 5.12.3 Services Supply .................................................................................................................. 26 5.12.4 Fencing ............................................................................................................................... 26 5.12.5 Reserve Signage ............................................................................................................... 27 5.12.6 Summary of Future Directions ......................................................................................... 27
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page ii Commercial in Confidence
6 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ............................................................................................................... 30
D I R E C T O R Y O F T A B L E S
Table 2.1 Review of 2008 Master Plan Progress ................................................................................. 4 Table 4.1 Summary of Key Issues – Stakeholder Consultation ....................................................... 11 Table 4.2 Population Profile ................................................................................................................ 17 Table 4.3 Age Profile ........................................................................................................................... 17 Table 4.4 Birthplace Summary ........................................................................................................... 18 Table 5.1 Summary of Infrastructure Development Proposals ....................................................... 27 Table 5.2 Summary of Non Infrastructure Development Proposals ............................................... 28 Table 6.1 Implementation Plan .......................................................................................................... 30
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 3 Commercial in Confidence
1 I N T R O D U C T I O N
The Wodonga Council has outlined in its 2009-2013 Council Plan a strategic objective that the
Council’s open spaces and recreational facilities are managed, developed and improved
for long- term sustainability and public safety. A key action to achieve this objective is to
work with all stakeholders to implement the Wodonga Racecourse Revitalisation Project.
The Wodonga Racecourse Revitalisation Project was a project, which commenced in 2005
and was driven by the Victorian Government and the Racing Industry. The objective of
Racing Victoria’s Revitalisation Project was to improve utilisation and sustainability of country
racecourse precincts, by creating better linkages with local and regional communities
through the development of multi-use facilities that can be used by all members of the local
community. The vision for these community precincts was to become attractions in
themselves as venues for business, sporting and cultural events, while also playing a vibrant
role in regional Victoria’s social and cultural life.
In 2007, Racing Victoria Limited received funding from the Victorian Government for Master
Planning at five regional racecourse sites which included the Wodonga Racecourse Precinct.
The Regional Racecourse Revitalisation Project – Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan was
completed in 2008. This Master Plan provided a direction for all stakeholders to enhance the
wider racecourse precinct.
A progress report on the Wodonga Revitalisation Project was presented at the June 25, 2012
Council meeting. This report identified that a range of infrastructure improvements have
been completed by various stakeholders including the Council, Wodonga Turf Club or other
stakeholders at the precinct.
The council highlighted that with the completion of a number of infrastructure projects, the
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan was now at a stage where a review and update of the
document was required to ensure further development and enhancement of the precinct for
the current and future users.
1.1 PROJECT SCOPE
The aim of the project was to review and update the Regional Racecourse Revitalisation
Project – Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan.
The scope of work included:
Review existing Master Plan and its currency;
Internal and external consultation with key stakeholders;
Identify key issues and trends for the precinct;
Evaluate outstanding and new infrastructure projects;
Develop a precinct vision to guide future management and infrastructure
implementation; and
Preparation of an updated Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan.
2 2 0 0 8 M A S T E R P L A N R E V I E W
In 2008, Racing Victoria Limited, Country Racing Victoria and Harness Racing Victoria
appointed Stratcorp Consulting to develop five Master Plans as part of the Victorian Racing
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 4 Commercial in Confidence
Industries Racecourse Revitilisation Project. The Wodonga Racecourse Reserve Master Plan
was one of these.
Key features of the Master Plan were identified. The following table outlines the key features
and the current state of implementation of the plan. A number of recommendations have
been completed or are in progress. Additional elements have also been identified through
recent stakeholder consultation and research undertaken.
The following table provides an outline of the proposed development recommendations from
the 2008 Master Plan and the progress of these recommendations:
Table 2.1
Review of 2008 Master Plan Progress
Item Description
Progress
A Improvements to infield sports
fields.
Completed.
B Installation of Multipurpose
hardstand.
Not completed. Support completion.
C Infield development for major
events (power, water, data and
lighting requirements).
Not completed. Review requirements of the entire
reserve.
D Construction of wetlands. Completed.
E Installation of criterion cycling
circuit and infield access road.
Not completed. Support feasibility into cycling facilities
including cyclo cross in Wodonga.
F Installation of walking trail (infield). Not completed. Support the development of walking
trails to infield, sports grounds and infield facilities.
G Improvements to racetrack
surface.
Partially completed. Support continued track works by
the Turf Club.
H Relocation of infield vehicle
access point.
Not completed in line with the Master Plan. A second
access point has been created but not used.
I Relocation of horse pool. Completed.
J Improvements to infield
pedestrian access (from Northern
Car Park).
Not completed. Support development of pedestrian
underpass.*
K New infield pedestrian access
(from spectator precinct).
Not completed however, not currently required if no
infield hardstand provided.
L Installation of racetrack perimeter
fencing.
Not completed. Support the continuation of race
track fencing.
M Potential commercial
development.
Not completed. **
N Grass car parking (Northern Car
Park).
Support the formalisation of this car park to provide an
all weather car park.
O Potential future relocation of
trainers.
Not supported. Trainers to remain on site.
P Improvements to main entrance. Not completed. Support improvements and changes
to main entrance.
Q Demolition or sale of racecourse
house.
Not completed. Support the demolition of house.
R New multipurpose facility. Not completed. Support the need for additional
space for Pony Club, Show Society and Events office.
Undertake feasibility into the development of a
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 5 Commercial in Confidence
multipurpose facility or utilisation of existing Nell Wilson
Pavilion for additional activities.
S Demolition of various aged
buildings.
Not completed. Support demolition of unused Pony
Club building. Consider demolition of other buildings
after multipurpose building feasibility study completed.
T Upgrade access road, car park
and spectator precinct.
Not completed. Work with the Show Society to
develop a landscape plan in line with the entire
reserve.
U Upgrade Wodonga Exhibition
Centre (multi purpose floor).
Not completed. Currently no one floor surface will suit
variety of uses.
V Creation of additional lawn
space.
Not completed. Maintain bull ring for its current use.
W Potential future function room. Completed. Member’s facilities provided.
X Future residential development. Not applicable at this stage.
Y Whitebox Rise residential
development.
Information only.
Z Road duplication. Information only.
* Application for funding submitted to the Sport and Recreation Victoria minor facilities
funding program 13/14.
** Currently, Council planning does not support the development of a commercial
accommodation development at this site.
Analysis of the need for accommodation in Wodonga has revealed significant latent
demand for the provision of high end accommodation in the core area of Wodonga's CBA.
While there are 6 motels on the periphery of the CBA there is currently no accommodation in
the core of Wodonga's CBA. Construction has commenced on an 80 room Quest Apartment
building which is envisaged for completion by mid 2013. Research indicates there is sufficient
demand for additional high end accommodation however the demand for accommodation
outside the CBA has not been established.
Primarily, the attraction of accommodation centres around the identified need to enhance
the night time economy in Wodonga's CBA through the provision of facilities in close walking
distance to shops and entertainment and conference facilities (eg. The Cube Wodonga,
High Street and restaurants). This forms an important component of the feasibility behind the
provision of accommodation services and the development of the CBA.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 6 Commercial in Confidence
2.1 LAND OWNERSHIP – WODONGA RACECOURSE
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 7 Commercial in Confidence
3 S I T E R E V I E W
The Wodonga Racecourse Precinct is located approximately 1.5km from the Wodonga CBD.
The site includes the Crown Land, Council owned land and privately owned Show Society
land. The site consists of the following facilities:
Race track;
Horse training facilities;
Race facilities including grandstand, TAB, catering, members, officials and jockey’s
facilities, horse stalls, ticket boxes, caretakers facilities and public amenities;
Racetrack infield contains 7 sports grounds for Auskick and 2 grounds for cricket
including a small pavilion;
The Nell Wilson Pavilion (multipurpose pavilion with commercial kitchen);
Bull Shed (cattle and horse shed);
Car parking at Richardson Street and corner of Hamilton Smith Drive and Brockley
Street;
Cattle yards;
Exhibition Centre (John Hamilton Smith Pavilion) used for indoor horse and cattle
events;
Outdoor Bull Ring;
The privately owned Wodonga Show Society land contains the following facilities:
Bob Pritchard Arena (outdoor grassed area used for events and equestrian activities);
Land housing the pony club shed, show society administration shed, two other sheds
occupied by the Murray Railway Modellers and the Wodonga Woodcrafters, another
shed to house pony club equipment and an amenities block.
The front entry to the precinct is via Crown Land on the corner of Hamilton Smith Drive and
Wilson Streets. The main entry road then enters Show Society land with this road servicing
tenants of the Show Society and those accessing the Council owned facilities (Exhibition
Centre, Nell Wilson Pavilion, and amenities cleaning) and the Turf Club facilities.
The service road to the Council and Turf Club facilities does not allow for parking in this area.
It is used by service and delivery vehicles as well as Turf Club administrators. Parking for users
of this area is provided off Richardson Street.
On large event and race days, parking is facilitated on the Wodonga Show Society land for a
fee and the open space across Wilson Street at the neighbouring school is also used. The
Richardson Street car park and the Hamilton Smith car park are also used.
3.1 LAND OWNERSHIP AND TENANCY
The site is unique in structure as it is comprised of three separate land owners representing a
combination of publically owned land (Wodonga Council and Crown Land managed by
Department of Sustainability and Environment Committee of Management) and privately
held land (Wodonga Show Society Inc.).
The Crown Land Reserve is managed by a nine member publicly elected Committee of
Management appointed by DSE. The Committee is made up of Council representation and
resident clubs.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 8 Commercial in Confidence
Areas of the reserve are managed directly by different bodies. These include:
Wodonga Show Society – manages the privately owned Show Society land including
the Bob Pritchard Arena, land tenanted by the Pony Club, Boarder and District Show
Jumping Club, Wodonga Woodcrafters, the Murray Railway Modellers, land used by
campers and the main entry road leading into the reserve.
Wodonga City Council – manages the land containing the Wodonga Exhibition
Centre, the Bull Ring, the Bull Shed, the cattle yards, the amenities near the Turf Club
area and onsite horse trainers and maintenance shed areas. Council also maintains
the infield for sporting club use, infield roads, and emergency vehicle track within the
race track, the wetlands, car parks and sports pavilion.
The Wodonga and District Turf Club – manage and maintain the race track and all
other race facility infrastructure under a lease arrangement.
The land ownership arrangements can be seen in 2.1 above.
3.1.1 Tenant Arrangements
Tenants of Show Society land have usage agreements with the Show Society and pay
an annual fee for their tenure. This varies based on their usage.
The Show Society charge a fee for use of the land for car parking for major events and
race day parking.
The Show Society charge for casual camping on their land.
Council charges for use of the Exhibition Centre, Bull Shed, Bull Ring, Cattle Yards and
the Nell Wilson Pavilion for events and activities
Onsite horse trainers have month by month lease arrangements directly with Council,
however, the lease arrangements are currently under review.
Infield tenants (Auskick and Cricket) pay a seasonal allocation to the Committee of
Management.
The Wodonga and District Turf Club have a lease for their facilities.
Larger events utilising the precinct pay an agreed fee to the the Council, Turf Club or
Committee of Management.
3.1.2 Management of the Precinct
The Crown Land component of the precinct is managed by a nine member publicly elected
Committee of Management appointed by DSE. The Committee of Management consists of
Council representation and the resident clubs located at the reserve including the Wodonga
Show Society.
The Council owned areas of the precinct are managed directly by Council and its various
departments including Events and Cultural Services (events and events facilities) and the
Recreation Department.
The privately owned Wodonga Show Society Land is directly managed by the Wodonga
Show Society.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 9 Commercial in Confidence
3.1.3 Central Booking System
Whilst the precinct is owned and managed by three different bodies, the precinct is used for
large scale events, often requiring the use of all three areas of the reserve. It is understood
that there is a centralised booking system managed by a Council staff member. Events and
regular reserve activities are recorded and information provided to all regular tenants and
committee members.
However, event bookings can be managed by Council, the Turf Club or the Wodonga Show
Society depending on who takes the initial request. This creates confusion for those running
events (i.e. no one central person to deal with) and the proposed fees and charges can vary
significantly.
The separate land ownership and management arrangements continue to present a
significant problem to all users of the reserve and can be particularly confusing to major
event organisers. This could result in events being moved to alternative venues.
3.1.4 Vision for the Precinct
Whilst the separate land ownership and management arrangements continue to present a
significant problem to all users of the reserve, it also presents a problem when determining a
shared vision for the precinct.
Currently, the vision for the precinct is:
“To become an attraction in itself as a venue for business, sporting and cultural events,
whilst also playing a vibrant role in Regional Victoria’s social and cultural life”.
From the consultation undertaken, it was made clear by the Wodonga Show Society that
they would prefer to manage their own buildings and facilities without interference from the
Council, Turf Club or Committee of Management, that they control the usage of their land
and what takes place on it and that the road into the precinct be relocated to Crown Land
so as to not impinge on Show Society space or be the responsibility of the Show Society to
maintain.
It is difficult to achieve the vision outlined above when one of the land owners/managers in
the precinct essentially wants to be left alone. The precinct relies on the Show Society land to
achieve the vision outlined and the Show Society relies on other areas of the precinct to run
their annual show.
Therefore, the Master Plan has been reviewed and updated with this in mind, which has
resulted in a Master Plan that is somewhat compromised and unlikely to achieve the vision.
However, the Master Plan could look somewhat different if the land ownership and
management issues were streamlined to one central owner/manager or if the land owners
agreed to work co-operatively in developing and implementing a shared vision for the entire
precinct.
Until such time as land ownership and management arrangements are streamlined, the
revised Master Plan best reflects the needs and wishes of all the stakeholders under the
current ownership and management arrangements.
Council may wish to consider undertaking further investigations into alternative land
ownership and management options. If changes are made in this area, this Master Plan
should be updated to reflect greater opportunities for the precinct.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 10 Commercial in Confidence
The various tenancy options are outlined below:
Council becomes the COM for the Crown Land component;
Turf Club have a lease over the race track, turf club facilities and trainers facilities
(would need two leases, one Crown and one Council);
Turf Club could have a lease over the above plus the Council owned land housing the
Exhibition Centre, Nell Wilson, Bull Shed, Bull Ring etc.
Council purchases the Wodonga Show Society Land and the Show Society are given
a licence for the areas of the site they require for the Show;
Wodonga Show Society leases their land to the Council or the Wodonga and District
Turf Club.
The various management options that could be considered include:
Council manages the precinct with the various tenants operating under lease or
licence agreements;
Council manages all bookings including events and informs and works with tenants to
co-ordinate activities;
Council undertakes all maintenance other than maintenance outlined in lease
agreements;
Council determines set fees and charges for events, licenses and leases, seasonal
tenancy agreements and casual usage;
Council collects income generated from the use of the site;
An advisory committee is formed to oversee the management of the precinct
comprising of tenants;
The Turf Club take over management responsibilities for the precinct as outlined
above rather than Council doing it.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 11 Commercial in Confidence
4 M A R K E T R E S E A R C H A N D C O N S U L T A T I O N
The following section provides a summary of the market research and consultation
undertaken and includes:
Summary of key stakeholder interviews;
Key issues and trends for the precinct; and
Demographic review.
4.1 SUMMARY OF KEY STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS
A stakeholder consultation program was undertaken including face to face meetings with
various stakeholders.
The following stakeholders provided feedback into the development of the Master Plan:
Wodonga City Council
o Recreation Department
o Parks and Gardens
o Events
o Building Maintenance
o Cultural Services
Wodonga and District Turf Club
Wodonga Show Society Inc.
Wodonga Pony Club
Onsite Trainers
Wodonga Midgets Auskick Football Club
Men’s Shed
Albury Wodonga Woodcrafters
Murray Valley Modellers
Albury Wodonga Cricket Club
Albury Wodonga Cycling Club
Boarder and District Show Jumping Club
The following table provides a summary of the issues raised in the face to face consultation
sessions:
Table 4.1
Summary of Key Issues – Stakeholder Consultation
Stakeholder
Group
Issues Raised
Wodonga City
Council
The Exhibition Centre required heavy vehicle access for delivery of saw
dust for soft floor preparation. It also requires containment for saw dust
located outside the facility.
Improved paving or hard landscaped areas around the Bullring and the
Nell Wilson Pavilion.
Cover the remaining cattle yards.
Investigate hard surface flooring of cattle yards.
More shade over Bullring is required.
An event office is required.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 12 Commercial in Confidence
Need to improve access and entrance issues.
The standard of surface on the Bob Pritchard Oval could be improved
with a review of power and water access to the site being required.
Improve power access throughout the site.
Improve path network and lighting throughout the site.
Improve signage throughout the reserve.
The bookings, event management and reserve management issues do
not work and need improving.
Underground access to the infield of the track is required by the Parks
Department.
Storage of horses and show jumping on sports grounds degrades the
playing surface.
Improve fencing, landscaping and bollards throughout the site to
eliminate the need for temporary fencing.
Improve sports ground lighting.
Need temporary shade for cricket.
Need temporary shelters for parents and spectators of infield users.
Need formalised paths to improve access for parents and spectators to
infield.
Need to finish fencing around wetlands for safety.
Define road way access to the infield and formalise parking around the
pavilion.
A centralised public address system is required.
Enhance the Nell Wilson Pavilion with heating, cooling, acoustic
treatment and storage options.
Investigate track crossing treatments like a drop in cricket pitch.
Wodonga and
District Turf
Club
The track requires widening at the 242m mark of the main straight and
camber requires reconstruction.
Toilet facilities are required in the function room or a cover to the existing
outdoor toilets is required.
Land management issues are a major impediment to achieving
outcomes.
Pedestrian and vehicle access across the track requires further
consideration.
Remove house at the front of the reserve to improve entrance. Will need
to consider how this revenue will be replaced.
Consider vehicle and pedestrian traffic from surrounding streets into the
reserve.
Nell Wilson Pavilion should be upgraded to cater for larger events.
Improve drainage to Jack In The Box Creek.
Support the development of a hard stand inside the track for marquees
or parking.
Improve security issues to the reserve to prevent horses escaping
overnight.
On Site Horse
Trainers
The number of track crossings need to be reduced or maintained so they
are level with the track.
Road through trainers area needs to be sealed and drainage improved.
Improve lighting within trainer’s area (check if existing lighting can be
fixed).
Trainers staff leave gates open. Need automatic gates to prevent a
horse from escaping.
Fencing around training area could be improved to ensure security and
safety.
Horse walkers or an area to take a horse for a walk on site is required.
Consider location of manure pit.
Tenancy and leases need to be sorted out.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 13 Commercial in Confidence
Wodonga
Men’s Shed
Looking for a permanent home (shed) but can’t be too close to a
residential area due to noise and car parking issues.
Potential use of the Bull Shed however, impractical to remove all
equipment and materials out for the show and other event use
(approximately 8 days per year). The Bull Shed would need to be
upgraded to accommodate alternative use.
Require a permanently equipped workspace.
Could permanently set up half of the Bull Shed for the work space with
provision for indoor storage of materials. There is potential to share the
Bull Shed with other community groups.
The site may look messy.
The Men’s Shed are in favour of the establishment of a stand-alone
purpose built community hub within the reserve area.
Wodonga
Show Society
Support the upgrade of the Nell Wilson Pavilion.
Require additional facilities on show day for traditional agricultural
activities.
Further investigate access issues as the main access road into the reserve
is rarely used for Show Society activities however, the Show Society is
responsible for maintaining it.
Car parking and camping is an important revenue stream for the Show
Society.
Remove Pony Club and Boarder and District Show Jumping Club
building and extend Show Society Building.
Show Society should be responsible for dealing with the buildings on their
own land.
Wodonga
Midgets
Auskick
Football Club
Support the development of a pedestrian and one way vehicle
underpass to preserve the track.
Continue construction of dam fencing.
Extend perimeter path alongside fencing.
Improve draining of ovals 1, 3 and 6 and top dress.
Wodonga
Woodcrafters
Want to ensure vehicle access to their shed if access road moved.
Would like improved communication regarding events occurring at the
reserve.
Boarder and
District Show
Jumping Club
The Bob Pritchard Arena is the main outdoor arena used by the club
which has a poor surface and is not irrigated. The arena needs to be
raised, irrigated and requires drainage.
Require fencing of two arenas on event days for safety reasons on the
Bob Pritchard Arena. Currently use star pickets and bunting.
Require day yards on event days.
Require upgrade to horse wash facilities.
The exhibition centre caters for skilled riders (the arena is below full size
creating a tight course)
Wodonga
Pony Club
The Club’s highest priority is a new club house (the existing Pony Club
shed is not in use due its poor condition).
The Club requires canteen facilities, meeting space and an area to hold
education sessions for its members.
Albury
Wodonga
Cycling Club
Support the development of a criterion track on the inside of the
racetrack for members and the general public to cycle away from
traffic.
Two internal links could also be included to provide variety to users.
A cyclo cross course could also be included in the infield.
If such facilities were to be built, storage would be required by the
various cycling clubs for equipment.
Murray Valley
Modellers
Currently lease a shed from the Show Society for their activities and are
happy with the facilities and management of the reserve.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 14 Commercial in Confidence
4.2 ISSUES AND TRENDS FOR THE PRECINCT
The following provides a summary of current sport, recreation and leisure trends that may
impact upon the development and future use of the Wodonga Racecourse and Recreation
Reserve.
4.2.1 Sport and Recreation Trends
The following summary of general sport and recreation trends impacting on Victorians and
their demand for recreation, sport and leisure activities has been developed using a range of
research documents including:
Participation in Exercise and Recreation and Sport: Australian Sports Commission
Annual Report 2009
Victorians Participation in Exercise and Recreation and Sport (2001/2002): Sport and
Recreation Victoria in collaboration with the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation.
Community Sport Counts: Local Sport and Recreation in Victoria Regional Summary
Report 1 2004 – Sport and Recreation Victoria
A combination of these documents findings in relation to wider general sport and recreation
trends and facility provision trends in Victorian and Australian Society over the past decade
are summarised in the following sections.
4.2.2 General Leisure Trends Impacting on Sport and Recreation Participation and
Facilities
The following highlights the range of general sport and recreation trends that are likely to
impact on Victorian Communities in the future:
A gradual aging of the population. As life expectancy increases, birth rates stay low
and the “baby boomers” of the 1950s and 1960s grow older. This is placing a new
demand on providing specific older persons programs and program areas.
Flexibility in the times when people recreate. As demands on people’s time increases
and work practices change people are seeking to take their sport and recreation at
different times, over a broad spread of hours and at facilities that offer a lot of
activities under the one roof. Indoor pools and health and fitness facilities are
particularly attractive and getting easier to use as many are open 12 to 16 hours, 7
days a week.
Increased variety in sport and recreation options. People’s sport and recreation
options are changing towards newer more varied activities offered over a greater
range of timeframes compared to previous decades where limited variety in activities
and scheduling occurred. This has supported the trend to more multi-use facilities to
attract a broader range of users as well as multiple programs to meet different needs
at the one centre.
Constraints to sport and recreation participation. Lack of time, lack of facilities close
by, family and work constraints, health problems and cost of service or use of facilities
are the main constraints to many Victorians sport and recreation participation. The
development of targeted markets of users, programs and services at many aquatic
and health and fitness centres has assisted in reducing some of these participation
constraints.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 15 Commercial in Confidence
Changing employment structures, trading and work hours. These trends often makes
participation in traditional sport and recreation activities difficult and therefore people
are looking for facilities that are open longer hours and have a lot of activity options
at the one site. This makes opportunities such as indoor pools and health and fitness
centres and indoor sports courts attractive as their long opening hours and days open
per year means usage can be made in a wide range of social, training, competition,
educational settings.
Different people want different activities. The broadening different cultural, age,
gender of the population sees the need for facilities to offer potential users a much
more varied range of programs and services than previously offered. All year round
available indoor and outdoor sport and recreation facilities also provide the greatest
diversity of activities throughout the different seasons impacted by Victoria’s weather.
Provision of high standards and quality of facilities and services. People are more and
more looking for high standard, high quality facilities and services to meet their sport
and recreation needs. This has also seen the trend for indoor facilities becoming very
popular as they allow activity in safe and secure spaces in all weather and
environmental conditions. This leads to indicating that building low standard, low cost
facilities will not attract the maximum user market.
Desire for activities to be affordable. The development of multi-purpose aquatic,
fitness and indoor sport centres has enabled the high operating cost activity of
aquatics (in many cases) to be cross subsidised by more profitable activity areas such
as health and fitness, food and beverage and entertainment areas. This has enabled
many facilities to keep general entry fees low to encourage use whilst seeking users
who want special services to contribute at a greater level to the cost of such activities.
Recognition of strong links between physical activity and health. Preventative health
care and active lifestyles are very important to many Victorians and aquatic and
health and fitness and indoor and outdoor sport activities are becoming a large part
of people’s activity choices.
Expectations of equity and access. Today’s society expects people with special
needs to be catered for in public facilities. This has seen improved design features to
increase accessibility to and within such facilities. Added to this is the growing array of
programs and activities offered to people of all different abilities, physical condition
and skill levels.
4.2.3 Comparison of National/State Sport and Recreation Participation Trends
The Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (ERASS) is a joint initiative of the Australian Sports
Commission and the state and territory government agencies responsible for sport and
recreation, and was first conducted in 2001.
This publication presents results from the fifth annual ERASS collection, which was conducted
in 2005.
ERAS collects information on the frequency, duration, nature and type of activities that are
participated in by persons aged 15 years and over for exercise, recreation and sport during
the 12 months prior to interview. Participation means active ‘playing’ participation, and does
not include coaching, refereeing and being a spectator or activities related to work or
household chores.1
1 Participation in Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey 2009 Annual Report
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 16 Commercial in Confidence
During the 12 months prior to interview in 2009, an estimated 11.1 million persons aged 15
years and over participated at least once per week1 in physical activity for exercise,
recreation and sport, a participation rate of 69.2% Household or garden chores, or activities
that were part of work were not included. However, the participation rate drops markedly
when higher frequency of involvement is considered. An estimated 7.1 million persons aged
15 years and over exercised three times per week or more (44.2%). A total of 4.9 million
persons (30.8%) either did not participate in any activity, or participated less than once per
week in the 12 months prior to interview
National and State leisure participation trends from the ERASS particularly relevant to the
Eltham Lower Park are detailed in the table below:
Category
National
Participation Rate %
2009
Victorian
Participation Rate %
2009
Walking for recreation 39.9% 37%
Cycling 11.6% 11.5%
Running 9.3% 8.8%
Australian Rules Football N/A 6.7%
Outdoor cricket 3.6% 4.0%
Outdoor Soccer 2.6% 3.1%
4.3 DEMOGRAPHIC REVIEW
The City of Wodonga is located in the Ovens-Murray Statistical Division of Victoria, on the New
South Wales border, about 300 kilometres north-east of Melbourne. The City of Wodonga is
bounded by the Murray River in the north, Towong Shire in the east and Indigo Shire in the
south and west.
The Census population of City of Wodonga in 2011 was 35,519, living in 14,748 dwellings with
an average household size of 2.5.living in an area of 43,280
hectares (433 Km2).
The following Section summarises the key population and demographic characteristics and
trends likely to impact future participation in sport and recreation activities in the area. The
population and demographic profiles are based wherever possible on the 2011 ABS Census
data.
© Standing Committee on Recreation and Sport 2006
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 17 Commercial in Confidence
4.3.1 Current Population Profile
The Wodonga area age profile is summarised in Table 4.2 for residents of the total
municipality:
Table 4.2
Population Profile City of Wodonga 2011 2006 Change 2006
to
2011
Number % City of
Wodonga
+2,542 % City of
Wodonga
+2,542
Population
(excluding O/S
visitors)
35,519 100.0 100.0 +1,263 100.0 100.0 +1,263
Males 17,503 49.3 48.7 +1,279 49.2 48.8 +1,279
Females 18,016 50.7 51.3 +1,946 50.8 51.2 +1,946
Australian citizens 32,879 92.6 91.3 +1,739 93.8 92.6 +1,739
Eligible Voters
(citizens aged 18+)
24,361 68.6 68.7 2006 to
2011
68.6 68.6 +2,542
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2006 and 2011. Compiled and presented by .id,
Table 4.3
Age Profile
Age Profile
City of Wodonga 2011 2006 Change
Five year age
groups (years)
Number % City of
Wodonga
Number % City of
Wodonga
2006 to
2011
0 to 4 2,698 7.6 6.9 2,380 7.2 6.8 +318
5 to 9 2,461 6.9 6.6 2,453 7.4 7.0 +8
10 to 14 2,552 7.2 6.9 2,535 7.7 7.5 +17
15 to 19 2,768 7.8 7.6 2,660 8.1 7.9 +108
20 to 24 2,649 7.5 7.3 2,517 7.6 7.6 +132
25 to 29 2,325 6.5 6.5 2,124 6.4 6.2 +201
30 to 34 2,264 6.4 6.2 2,229 6.8 6.4 +35
35 to 39 2,364 6.7 6.4 2,402 7.3 7.0 -38
40 to 44 2,476 7.0 6.8 2,401 7.3 7.0 +75
45 to 49 2,389 6.7 6.6 2,325 7.1 7.3 +64
50 to 54 2,232 6.3 6.7 2,137 6.5 6.7 +95
55 to 59 2,139 6.0 6.1 1,917 5.8 6.0 +222
60 to 64 1,874 5.3 5.5 1,349 4.1 4.2 +525
65 to 69 1,370 3.9 4.1 1,015 3.1 3.5 +355
70 to 74 1,021 2.9 3.3 833 2.5 2.8 +188
75 to 79 766 2.2 2.5 755 2.3 2.7 +11
80 to 84 630 1.8 2.1 558 1.7 2.0 +72
85 and over 541 1.5 1.9 387 1.2 1.5 +154
Total 35,519 100.0 100.0 32,977 100.0 100.0 +2,542 Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2006 and 2011. Compiled and presented by .id, the
population experts.
From 2006 to 2011, City of Wodonga's population increased by 2,542 people (7.7%). This
represents an average annual population change of 1.5% per year over the period.
The largest changes in age structure in this area between 2006 and 2011 were in the age
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 18 Commercial in Confidence
groups:
• 60 to 64 (+525 persons)
• 65 to 69 (+355 persons)
• 0 to 4 (+318 persons)
55 to 59 (+222 persons)
4.3.2 Ethnicity
Table 4.4 shows the country of birth of Wodonga residents and the difference
between 2006 and 2011.
Table 4.4
Birthplace Summary
Birthplace - summary
City of Wodonga 2011 2006 Change
Birthplace Number % City of
Wodonga
Number % City of
Wodonga
2006 to
2011
Total Overseas
born
3,389 9.5 9.9 3,064 9.3 9.0 +325
Non-English
speaking
backgrounds
1,988 5.6 5.7 1,782 5.4 4.8 +206
Main English
speaking countries
1,401 3.9 4.3 1,282 3.9 4.2 +119
Australia 30,714 86.5 85.4 28,671 86.9 86.0 +2,043
Not Stated 1,416 4.0 4.6 1,260 3.8 5.0 +156
Total Population 35,519 100.0 100.0 32,995 100.0 100.0 +2,524
Between 2006 and 2011, the number of people born overseas increased by 325 or 10.6%, and
the number of people from a non-English speaking background increased by 206 or 11.6%.
The largest changes in birthplace countries of the population in this area between 2006 and
2011 were for those born in:
• India (+66 persons)
• United Kingdom (+51 persons)
• Sri Lanka (+50 persons)
The ABS indicates the following relevant statistical trends on education, housing, income,
employment and families.
4.3.3 Education
Overall, 39.0% of the population aged 15 and over held educational qualifications, and 50.8%
had no qualifications. The largest changes in the qualifications of the population in City of
Wodonga between 2001 and 2006 were in those with:
• Vocational qualifications (+1,007 persons)
• Bachelor or Higher degrees (+760 persons)
• Advanced Diploma or Diplomas (+451 persons)
• No qualifications (-420 persons)
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 19 Commercial in Confidence
4.3.4 Income
Overall, 9.2% of Wodonga households earned a high income, and 23.1% were low income
households.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 20 Commercial in Confidence
5 R E C O M M E N D E D M A S T E R P L A N S T R A T E G I C D I R E C T I O N
The following section provides a summary of the future directions proposed for the continued
development of the Wodonga Racecourse Reserve. The proposed future directions have
been suggested based on the consultation undertaken with identified stakeholders and
research completed.
The future directions outlined in this report are not listed in priority order.
5.1 ACCESS AND EGRESS
The following provides a summary of the key issues and recommendation in relation to access
and egress within and around the site.
5.1.1 Improved Front Entrance on Hamilton Smith Drive
The existing entry into the Racecourse from Hamilton Smith Drive contains a vehicle access
road through Show Society land servicing the various facilities located on Show Society Land
(Show Society Office, Pony Club Shed, Murray Valley Modellers Shed, Woodcrafters Shed and
community camping). Those accessing the Wodonga Turf Club Administration, the Nell Wilson
Pavilion and the Exhibition Centre also use this entrance. Pedestrian access is also provided
from Hamilton Smith Drive directly into the Wodonga Turf Club area past the front entry ticket
box.
The consultation process identified the need to review the current access (both vehicle and
pedestrian) into the racecourse and create a more prominent and welcoming point of entry
into the facility.
Discussions with the Show Society indicated a concern with the current arrangement where
vehicle access to the racecourse is via an access road located on land owned by the Show
Society. The review has identified a range of opportunities to create a new racecourse
vehicle access point, improve the pedestrian access via Hamilton Smith Drive and Wilson
Street and improve the point of entry to the facility.
The following recommendations are made to improve the pedestrian access to the
Wodonga Racecourse from Hamilton Smith Drive:
Undertake a landscape plan to create an updated point of entry to the facility.
Demolish or remove the existing care takers house leased by the Wodonga and
District Turf Club and integrate as part new point of entry and pedestrian access.
Create a thematic landscaped entrance consistent with the Wodonga Racecourse
Landscaping.
Extend the pedestrian walkway from the Racecourse Grandstand to the landscaped
entrance on Hamilton Smith Drive.
Install new quality fencing to delineate Wodonga Racecourse from the Wodonga
Show Society Land (some permanent chain mesh fencing exists however, temporary
fencing is also used almost permanently). The fencing should include the opportunity
to provide panels that slide back on themselves to enable the area to be opened up
for events.
Create taxi zones and drop off areas at the front entrance on Hamilton Smith Drive.
Consider a proposal from the Wodonga Show Society to relocate the Hamilton Smith
Drive entry and road through Show Society land to an alternative location. Detailed
plans have yet to be finalised at the time of writing this report.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 21 Commercial in Confidence
Figure 1 Current Hamilton Smith Drive Entrance and Example Temporary Fencing
5.1.2 Richardson Street Entry
Currently, the Richardson Street entry is used on race days, show days and other large event
days for parking, unloading of cattle and horses and delivery of equipment and supplies. An
opportunity exists to upgrade the Richardson Street entry as an alternative vehicle entry point
to better service the facilities on Council and Crown Land.
It is recommended that a traffic management plan be undertaken to ascertain the impact of
any changes in traffic flow to this area on nearby residents and to determine the best
configuration for traffic flow to and around the facilities such as the Exhibition Centre, Nell
Wilson Pavilion, Bull Shed and Bull Ring and Turf Club facilities. The expected parking
requirements should also be considered as part of this plan.
The following recommendations are made to improve the Richardson Street entry and
parking area:
Improve the appearance of the entrance to create a welcoming vehicle point of
entry to the facility.
Formalise existing parking with some marked parking bays, landscaping and
additional access points to existing infrastructure such as the Turf Club Administration
area (create a loop road around the Nell Wilson Pavilion and the existing amenities).
Relocate the existing green Show Society Shed located within the car park to a
location on Show Society Land.
Acquire the house block located next to the existing Show Society shed and
consolidate the land ownership in the area to Council owned.
To enable the successful implementation of this recommendation a review of the impact to
residents on Richardson Street and Phillip Streets will be required including the provision of
appropriate traffic treatments to mitigate against any negative impacts.
5.1.3 Formalise the North West Corner Car Park
The current unsealed car park located on the corner of Brockley St and Hamilton Smith Drive
is predominantly used by the Wodonga Midgets Auskick Football Club and other infield users.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 22 Commercial in Confidence
It was reported that the car park surface is often muddy and wet and is currently not marked
or formalised.
The following recommendations are made to improve the North West Car Park and entrance
for user of the infield sports grounds:
Provide an all weather surface.
Support the proposed pedestrian underpass to the infield.
Provide sealed pathways from the car park to the location of the underpass.
Create pedestrian link to the main entrance from this car park.
Figure 2 North West Car Park
5.2 CATTLE YARD USAGE
The cattle yards are used on show days and for cattle sales and shows. However, the cattle
yards are predominantly used by hirers of the Exhibition Centre (for cattle sales). There is an
opportunity to review the optimum configuration of the cattle yards in line with the provision
of new horse stalls within the Turf Club area. Consideration could be given to the following:
Review of the number of cattle yards required and their optimal configuration.
Consider an opportunity to maximise cattle yards and horse stalls in partnership with
the Turf Club.
Remove the amenities block in the middle of the cattle yards.
Further investigate alternative use of the Bull Shed for activities such as Men’s Shed or
Theatre Company set building. Would need to determine if existing use could be
accommodated in a review of the cattle yards and horse stalls.
Any changes to the cattle yards should be determined in light of the use of the Exhibition
Centre.
5.3 EXHIBITION CENTRE
The Exhibition Centre is used for cattle sales, equestrian events, show jumping, rodeos, alpaca
sales and dog events. There is concern from the Wodonga and District Turf Club that usage of
the Exhibition Centre for cattle sales may decrease, which may impact on the need for cattle
yards and the Bull Shed.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 23 Commercial in Confidence
Discussion with key stakeholders indicated that saw dust flooring does not suit all uses of the
Centre. It is difficult to provide one type of multi-purpose flooring to suit all types of events, as
each activity requires a different soft floor surface.
Consideration should be given to the following:
Complete a strategic business plan for the Exhibition Centre, cattle yards and use of
the Bull Shed for cattle and horse events.
Further investigation into appropriate multipurpose floor surfaces should continue,
however, until such time that suitable multipurpose floor is available, dressing of the
exhibition centre for each event will be required.
5.4 NELL WILSON PAVILION IMPROVEMENTS
The Nell Wilson Pavilion provides an indoor event space of approximately 500m2. The facilities
are relatively basic and include a commercial kitchen and a multipurpose space suitable for
an indoor showing space on show days and event days as well as catered functions. The
review indicates the need to upgrade the facility to improve the quality, amenity and
functionality to support a greater range of events and activities.
The following recommendations are made to improve the usage and functionality of the Nell
Wilson Pavilion:
Internal storage for user groups for equipment,
tables and chairs.
Heating and cooling.
Acoustic treatment to the building.
External lighting of the building for safer night
time use.
Review access from the Richardson Street car
park and Show Society car park.
Figure 5 Nell Wilson Pavilion
5.5 BULL RING
The Bull Ring is used by the Wodonga Pony Club, the Wodonga Show Society and for cattle
sales. The Bull Ring is a multipurpose outdoor area used for a range of activities. The area has
the advantage of tiered seating for spectator viewing. Consultation as part of the review
confirmed the value of the facility and the need to retain as part of the range of facilities
provided at the site. The following recommendations are suggested to improve the
functionality of the space:
Install shade over spectator tiered seating.
Figure 6 The Bull Ring
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 24 Commercial in Confidence
5.6 BULL SHED
The Bull Shed is used for approximately 3 days during the Wodonga Show and for
approximately a week during the World Cup Jumping event. The most valuable horses and
bulls are housed in the Bull Shed during these events. The facility is not used at other times of
the year. As indicated above there is an opportunity to relocate the current uses of this
facility to the cattle yards or horse stalls in the Turf Club if they were upgraded which would
enable the shed to be redeveloped for alternate uses i.e. Men’s Shed or Theatre Company
set development.
The following recommendations are made to improve the functionality and usage of the
facility:
Review paving and access to the Bull Shed as part of the landscape plan, and traffic
management plan from the Richardson Street car park and to and from the cattle
yards, Bull Ring and Exhibition Centre.
Investigate options for other community usage or tenants of the building such as the
Men’s Shed or Theatre Company.
Alternatively, consider the size of the facility required to house the cattle and
consolidate an indoor cattle yard within the existing cattle yards or proposed new
horse stalls in the Turf Club area.
5.7 TURF CLUB AREA AND RACECOURSE
Discussions with the Wodonga Turf Club identified a range of issues and improvements
required that will continue to support the Club in their efforts to maintain and improve the
race track and racecourse facilities. This includes a number of activities:
Undertake works on the race track to widen sections and improve camber.
Improve drainage to Jack in the Box Creek.
Construct toilets within the members lounge or provide undercover access from
members lounge to existing amenities block.
Investigate options for improved security of horses on site including automatic gates or
relocation of vehicle access through trainer’s area.
Relocation of 18 existing horse stalls and construction of 40 new horse stalls.
Install a sealed pathway along the front lawn to prevent damage to the lawn on
event days.
5.8 WODONGA SHOW SOCIETY LAND (INCLUDING BOB PRITCHARD ARENA)
The Wodonga Show Society land includes the Bob Pritchard Arena and the “Car Park and
Camping” space. Within the camping and car parking space is a number of green
Colorbond sheds housing permanent tenants and storage, as well as a public amenities and
shower block. The main entry road runs through the show society land.
The following recommendations are made to improve the functionality of the space:
Erect permanent fencing to delineate the boundaries between the Show Society
Land and the remainder of the site where possible. Some areas will need to contain
removable fencing to open up the space on event days utilising all areas.
Develop a themed landscape plan throughout the area consistent with the
remainder of the site.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 25 Commercial in Confidence
Plan for the upgrade of the Bob Pritchard Arena to improve the quality of the surface
for regular users including the Wodonga Pony Club and the Boarder and District Show
Jumping Club.
Review the provision of horse stalls and wash facilities at the Bob Pritchard Arena and
determine the most suitable location and configuration. Consider fencing to contain
horses on the Bob Pritchard Arena.
Develop a plan for a small area for camping.
Further investigate the need to demolish, relocate or rebuild the Pony Club building
located on Show Society land. At last meeting, the Show Society indicated it might be
possible for the Pony Club to undertake some works on the floor and re-occupy the
space again.
The Show Society to further consider their need for expansion of their existing shed
which may or may not accommodate Pony Club activities.
Consider the need for an events office on site when the management issues are
finalised.
Relocate the Show Society shed in the Richardson Street car park to Show Society
Land off Wilson Street.
Consider a proposal from the Wodonga Show Society to relocate the Hamilton Smith
Drive entry and road through Show Society land to an alternative location. Support
the upgrade of the current or relocated road being upgraded to asphalt. Detailed
plans yet to be finalised at the time of writing this report.
There may be an opportunity to consolidate a number of the buildings/sheds on the
site to improve the functionality of the area. Show Society to determine the need for
additional buildings on Show Society land for Show Society activities. It is
recommended that temporary marquees may be sufficient for one off events.
5.9 INFIELD AND SPORTS GROUNDS
There are currently nine sports grounds located within the centre of the racecourse including
two cricket pitches. The sports grounds are predominantly used by the Wodonga Midgets
Auskick Football Club. A number of improvements to the infield sports grounds have been
undertaken since the completion of the Master Plan in 2008. Discussions with the sporting
clubs identified the following recommendations to support the continued use of this area by
the Auskick Football Club and any other sporting clubs as a potential overflow area for
training.
Installation of a multipurpose hard stand.
Underground pedestrian access to infield from Northern Car Park.
Construction of sealed car park.
Continuation of security fencing around the water storage.
Continue to improve ground surface conditions including top dressing and returfing
where required to local level standard.
Provision of temporary shelters for Auskick and Cricket spectators.
Relocation of vehicle access point to the infield. Eliminate need for vehicles to enter
horse trainer’s area.
5.10 CRITERIUM CYCLING CIRCUIT/CYCLOCROSS
As part of the 2008 Master Plan the opportunity to develop a criterion cycling circuit was
identified. Since the development of the Master Plan however no further work has been
undertaken on this opportunity. Discussion with the Albury Wodonga Cycling Club indicated
that there is still strong support for the development of the facility. The Club indicated that
the following clubs would make use of the facility if developed:
Albury Wodonga Cycling Club;
Lavington Panthers Cycling Club;
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 26 Commercial in Confidence
Albury Wodonga Mountain Biking Club; and
Albury Wodonga Triathlon Club.
It is recommended that a more detailed feasibility study into the development of the circuit
including the capital and operational cost be undertaken. The potential to develop a cyclo
cross track through the infield should also be reviewed as part of the feasibility study.
Consideration should be given to the ability to access the facilities outside of the early
morning horse training and Auskick and whether this is the most appropriate location for such
a facility.
5.11 ON SITE HORSE TRAINERS PRECINCT
There are currently nine horse trainers on site with leases on a month to month basis with
Council. The following recommendations are made to improve the functionality of the onsite
horse trainer’s area:
Check existing light poles and light fittings in the horse trainer’s area are working or
can be fixed.
Seal road through the trainer’s area and provide adequate drainage.
Maintain crossings across the race track.
Finalise trainers leases and leased areas to determine if there is space on site for a
shared horse walker.
Review current fencing to ensure security and safety of horse training area.
Review position of the manure pit for access by trainers and the general public.
Relocate infield vehicle access path outside of fenced horse trainer’s area.
5.12 GENERAL RESERVE IMPROVEMENTS
The following issues and improvement opportunities were also identified as part of the
stakeholder consultation and research undertaken:
5.12.1 Children’s Playground
Consider upgrading or relocating the children’s playground at the front entrance to the turf
club once a detailed landscape plan is completed.
5.12.2 Event Office
Further investigate the feasibility of providing an event office to service the entire site for
major events when management issues are finalised.
5.12.3 Services Supply
Complete a services plan for the precinct including a review of power, water, data, sewer,
drainage, lighting and flood lighting of sports grounds for major events and activities. Also
consider the provision of a reserve public address system.
5.12.4 Fencing
Internal fencing of the site requires review as part of a landscape plan development.
Temporary fencing is used significantly throughout the site on a more “permanent” basis. A
more permanent solution to fixed and movable fencing is required.
External precinct fencing also requires a review to ensure security of the site.
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 27 Commercial in Confidence
Figure 7 Example of temporary fencing used on
a more permanent basis.
5.12.5 Reserve Signage
A themed approach to reserve signage is required to identify significant facilities, entrances,
access areas etc. However, it should be noted that many tenants were reluctant to have
their buildings signed to reduce the chance of vandalism.
5.12.6 Summary of Future Directions
Table 5.1
Summary of Infrastructure Development Proposals
Item Description
Estimated Cost
1 Installation of multipurpose asphalt hardstand area 200m x 35m for
a variety of uses including event displays, exhibitions and car
parking.
$250,000
2 Provide infield vehicle access point for general public with
pedestrian underpass to separate public vehicle entry from the
horse trainer’s area. A report commissioned by GHD proposes a
concept design allowing for medium rigid vehicles such as fire
trucks, ambulances or maintenance vehicles with minimal use.
$280,000
3 Improved infield pedestrian access with the development of an
underpass linking the car park to the infield.
Included in above
4
Upgrade the emergency vehicle track inside the race track from
the vehicle/pedestrian underpass to the hard to a sealed surface
to enable cars entering the infield to park on the hardstand.
$63,000
5 Provide a sealed vehicle path from the hard stand on the western
side of the infield to the pavilion for service vehicles and deliveries.
Provide a turn-around point at the pavilion, not intended for
parking.
$30,000
6 Continue a granitic sand pedestrian path from the pavilion to the
eastern side of the infield.
$15,000
7 Installation of race track perimeter fencing (1800mm high) to
address current safety issues).
TBC
8 Formalise car park area with an all weather surface for sports
participants and racegoers. Crushed rock with concrete Kerb &
Channel.
$220,000
9 Create a pedestrian link to the racecourse main entrance from $10,000
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 28 Commercial in Confidence
the formalised car park. Include a sealed pathway to the
pedestrian underpass.
10 Demolish or remove the existing care takers house on DSE land
leased by the Turf Club. Integrate this area into a new point of
entry.
$10,000
11 Create a taxi zone and drop off area to the Hamilton Smith Drive
entry. Nominal 2 bays.
$15,000
12 Consider a proposal from the Wodonga Show Society to relocate
the Hamilton Smith Drive entry and road through Show Society
land to an alternative location. Support the upgrade of the
current or relocated road being upgraded to asphalt. Detailed
plans yet to be finalised at the time of writing this report. Include
demolition and earthworks.
$40,000
13 Formalise the Richardson Street car park with marked parking
bays with additional vehicle access to existing infrastructure.
$30,000
14 Relocate the existing Show Society shed in the Richardson Street
car park to a location on Show Society land.
$5,000
15 Remove amenities in the middle of the existing cattle yards. $5,000
16 Upgrade the Nell Wilson Pavilion to improve usage and
functionality, by creating internal storage, providing heating and
cooling, external lighting and acoustic treatment.
$60,000
17 Install shade over Bull Ring tiered seating. $30,000
18 Complete security fencing around the wetlands. $15,000
19 Continue to improve the sports ground surfaces to local level
standard.
$10,000
20 Provide temporary shelters for spectators to each sports ground. $20,000
21 Seal road through the trainer’s area and provide adequate
drainage. Assume 250Lm x 5m + 100Lm x 3m wide x 1,550m2 &
Kerb & Channel.
$100,000
22 Turf Club to undertake maintenance and upgrade of the race
track as planned and required.
TBC
23 Improve drainage of the track to Jack in the Box Creek. TBC
24 Develop toilets in the members lounge or provide an undercover
walkway to the existing amenities in the Turf Club area.
TBC
Table 5.2
Summary of Non Infrastructure Development Proposals
Item Description
Estimated Cost
1 Complete a services plan for the precinct including a review of
power, water, data, sewer, drainage, lighting and flood lighting of
sports ground requirements.
$20,000
2 Complete a themed landscape plan for the entire precinct
including an updated point of entry at Hamilton Smith Drive and
Richardson Street entry. The landscape plan should also
incorporate a continued theme within the Wodonga Show
Society land, permanent fencing to delineate Show Society land
from Crown Land and Council land with removable panels,
relocation or upgrade of the playground, and the consolidation of
a number of sheds on Show Society land to improve the
functionality of the space. The landscape plan should include
pedestrian links from car parks to facilities throughout the site. A
fencing plan around the perimeter of the precinct to enhance
$50,000
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 29 Commercial in Confidence
security should be developed including a review of fencing
around the trainer’s area.
3 Acquire one house block owned by the Show Society next to the
shed in the Richardson Street car park and consolidate land
ownership in this area to Council owned.
Valuation required
4 Undertake a traffic management and vehicle access plan for the
precinct including vehicle access to all facilities within the
precinct, car parking requirements, Hamilton Smith Drive entry
road configuration, vehicle underpass requirements and impact
on surrounding streets if vehicle flows were to be altered.
$15,000 - $20,000
5 Plan for the upgrade of the Bob Pritchard Arena to improve the
quality of the surface for regular users including the Wodonga
Pony Club and the Boarder and District Show Jumping Club.
$10,000
6 Review the provision of horse stalls and wash facilities at the Bob
Pritchard Arena and determine the most suitable location and
configuration. Consider fencing to contain horses on the Bob
Pritchard Arena.
Internal resources
7 Develop a plan and formalise an area for camping on Show
Society land.
$10,000
8 Further investigate the need to demolish, relocate or rebuild the
Pony Club building located on Show Society land. At last meeting,
the Show Society indicated it might be possible for the Pony Club
to undertake some works on the floor and re-occupy the space
again.
Internal resources
9 The Show Society to further consider their need for expansion of
their existing shed which may or may not accommodate Pony
Club activities.
Internal resources
10 Consider the need for an events office on site when the
management issues are finalised.
Internal resources
11 Review the position of the manure pit if public access is to be
restricted to the trainer’s area.
Internal resources
12 Formalise horse trainer’s leases and consider the provision of a
shared horse walker in this area.
Internal resources
13 Develop a reserve signage plan to identify significant facilities,
entrances and access.
$5,000
14 Undertake a strategic business plan for the use of the Exhibition
Centre, cattle yards and Bull Shed and the economic benefits of
investing into these facilities.
$10,000
15 Continue to investigate if a multipurpose floor surface is
appropriate to cater for the variety of events held in the Exhibition
Centre.
Internal resources
16 Review the number of cattle yards required and their optimal
configuration. Consider an opportunity to maximise cattle yards
and horse stalls in partnership with the Turf Club.
Included in 14.
17 Further investigate alternative use of the Bull Shed for activities
such as Men’s Shed or Theatre Company set building. Would need
to determine if existing use could be accommodated in a review
of the cattle yards and horse stalls.
Included in 14.
18 Undertake a feasibility study into the development of a cycling
criterion track and other cycling facilities in the Wodonga area.
$25,000
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 30 Commercial in Confidence
6 I M P L E M E N T A T I O N P L A N
Based on the consultation and key findings, the table below details the strategic directions,
recommended actions, priorities and stakeholders responsible for implementing the actions.
The priority column within the table indicates a timeline for each recommended
action/output and includes the following key:
Short – 0-3 years
Medium – 4 – 6 years
Long – 7 years plus
The responsibility column within the table identifies that stakeholder primarily responsible for
leading the delivery ofthe action:
CL = Council
TC = Turf Club
SS = Show Society
Table 6.1
Implementation Plan
Item Description
Priority Responsibility
1 Installation of multipurpose asphalt hardstand area
200m x 35m for a variety of uses including event
displays, exhibitions and car parking.
S CL
2 Provide infield vehicle access point for general
public with pedestrian underpass to separate public
vehicle entry from the horse trainer’s area. A report
commissioned by GHD proposes a concept design
allowing for medium rigid vehicles such as fire trucks,
ambulances or maintenance vehicles with minimal
use.
S CL
3 Improved infield pedestrian access with the
development of an underpass linking the car park to
the infield.
S CL
4
Upgrade the emergency vehicle track inside the
race track from the vehicle/pedestrian underpass to
the hard to a sealed surface to enable cars entering
the infield to park on the hardstand.
S CL
5 Provide a sealed vehicle path from the hard stand
on the western side of the infield to the pavilion for
service vehicles and deliveries. Provide a turn-around
point at the pavilion, not intended for parking.
S CL
6 Continue a granitic sand pedestrian path from the
pavilion to the eastern side of the infield.
M CL
7 Installation of race track perimeter fencing (1800mm
high) to address current safety issues).
S TC
8 Formalise car park area with an all weather surface
for sports participants and racegoers.
M CL
9 Create a pedestrian link to the racecourse main
entrance from the formalised car park. Include a
sealed pathway to the pedestrian underpass.
S CL
10 Demolish or remove the existing care takers house on S TC
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 31 Commercial in Confidence
DSE land leased by the Turf Club. Integrate this area
into a new point of entry.
11 Create a taxi zone and drop off area to the Hamilton
Smith Drive entry.
S CL
12 Consider a proposal from the Wodonga Show
Society to relocate the Hamilton Smith Drive entry
and road through Show Society land to an
alternative location. Support the upgrade of the
current or relocated road being upgraded to
asphalt. Detailed plans yet to be finalised at the time
of writing this report.
S ALL
13 Formalise the Richardson Street car park with marked
parking bays with additional vehicle access to
existing infrastructure.
M CL
14 Relocate the existing Show Society shed in the
Richardson Street car park to a location on Show
Society land.
M SS
15 Remove amenities in the middle of the existing cattle
yards.
L CL
16 Upgrade the Nell Wilson Pavilion to improve usage
and functionality, by creating internal storage,
providing heating and cooling, external lighting and
acoustic treatment.
S CL
17 Install shade over Bull Ring tiered seating. S CL
18 Complete security fencing around the wetlands. S CL
19 Continue to improve the sports ground surfaces to
local level standard.
M CL
20 Provide temporary shelters for spectators to each
sports ground.
S CL
21 Seal road through the trainer’s area and provide
adequate drainage.
S CL/TC
22 Turf Club to undertake maintenance and upgrade of
the race track as planned and required.
S TC
23 Improve drainage of the track to Jack in the Box
Creek.
S TC & CL
24 Develop toilets in the members lounge or provide an
undercover walkway to the existing amenities in the
Turf Club area.
S TC
Item Non Infrastructure Developments
Priority Responsibility
1 Complete a services plan for the precinct including
a review of power, water, data, sewer, drainage,
lighting and flood lighting of sports ground
requirements.
S CL
2 Complete a themed landscape plan for the entire
precinct including an updated point of entry at
Hamilton Smith Drive and Richardson Street entry. The
landscape plan should also incorporate a continued
theme within the Wodonga Show Society land,
permanent fencing to delineate Show Society land
from Crown Land and Council land with removable
panels, relocation or upgrade of the playground,
and the consolidation of a number of sheds on Show
Society land to improve the functionality of the
space. The landscape plan should include
S ALL
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 32 Commercial in Confidence
pedestrian links from car parks to facilities throughout
the site. A fencing plan around the perimeter of the
precinct to enhance security should be developed
including a review of fencing around the trainer’s
area.
3 Acquire one house block owned by the Show
Society next to the shed in the Richardson Street car
park and consolidate land ownership in this area to
Council owned.
L CL
4 Undertake a traffic management and vehicle access
plan for the precinct including vehicle access to all
facilities within the precinct, car parking
requirements, Hamilton Smith Drive entry road
configuration, vehicle underpass requirements and
impact on surrounding streets if vehicle flows were to
be altered.
S CL
5 Plan for the upgrade of the Bob Pritchard Arena to
improve the quality of the surface for regular users
including the Wodonga Pony Club and the Boarder
and District Show Jumping Club.
M SS
6 Review the provision of horse stalls and wash facilities
at the Bob Pritchard Arena and determine the most
suitable location and configuration. Consider
fencing to contain horses on the Bob Pritchard
Arena.
M SS
7 Develop a plan and formalise an area for camping
on Show Society land.
S SS
8 Further investigate the need to demolish, relocate or
rebuild the Pony Club building located on Show
Society land. At last meeting, the Show Society
indicated it might be possible for the Pony Club to
undertake some works on the floor and re-occupy
the space again.
S SS
9 The Show Society to further consider their need for
expansion of their existing shed which may or may
not accommodate Pony Club activities.
S SS
10 Consider the need for an events office on site when
the management issues are finalised.
S ALL
11 Review the position of the manure pit if public access
is to be restricted to the trainer’s area.
M TC
12 Formalise horse trainer’s leases and consider the
provision of a shared horse walker in this area.
S CL
13 Develop a reserve signage plan to identify significant
facilities, entrances and access.
M CL
14 Undertake a strategic business plan for the use of the
Exhibition Centre, cattle yards and Bull Shed and the
economic benefits of investing into these facilities.
M CL
15 Continue to investigate if a multipurpose floor
surface is appropriate to cater for the variety of
events held in the Exhibition Centre.
M CL
16 Review the number of cattle yards required and their
optimal configuration. Consider an opportunity to
maximise cattle yards and horse stalls in partnership
with the Turf Club.
M CL
17 Further investigate alternative use of the Bull Shed for S CL
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 33 Commercial in Confidence
activities such as Men’s Shed or Theatre Company
set building. Would need to determine if existing use
could be accommodated in a review of the cattle
yards and horse stalls.
18 Undertake a feasibility study into the development of
a cycling criterion track and other cycling facilities in
the Wodonga area.
M CL
Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 34 Commercial in Confidence
A P P E N D I X A : M A S T E R P L A N