Following the State Governments announcement in June of the stimulus package for the greater South Australian racing, Harness Racing South Australia (HRSA) has embarked on a consultation process with all harness racing clubs in the state, seeking their input as to how the monies made available by Government could best be utilised in assisting to achieve the Ministers stated goals of protecting jobs, and strengthening the industry so to ensuring it becomes more sustainable in the future.
This consultation process with the industry has involved seeking feedback from all clubs as to their infrastructure requirements, and how the funds made available by Government could be applied to benefit the harness racing industry in the state moving forward.
HRSA has also consulted with SA BOTRA, the most significant industry representative group in SA; with SA Harness Racing Club executive, and with the Executive of the SA Country Harness Racing Clubs Association.
Additionally, and resulting from the funding agreements entered into with the government, the HRSA Board is currently working through the process of restructuring the dynamic of the Board directorships where the positions of Country Clubs and South Australian Harness Racing Club representatives will be disestablished and replaced by two additional independently appointed directorships.
With respect to all consultations it has been heartening to note the positivity generated by the Ministers funding announcement, how this has potentially provided the industry with the much needed `shot in the arm’ for which it has been long waiting for.
It is also heartening for HRSA to have already received a number of submissions from member clubs outlining how any monies provided could be utilised to strengthen their operations and provide enhanced benefits for the harness racing industry in the long term.
Once all submissions are received the Board will, after careful consideration, make the appropriate recommendations to the Minister as to how the funds available could be best utilised, with the outcomes to be advised to the industry.
For further information please contact:
ROSS NEAL | CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
(08) 8285 2899 • rneal@saharness.org.au