Fourteen million dollars later, Casino has a world class equestrian centre with an undercover arena and shaded seating for 2500 people to watch events at the Casino Showground.
At the official opening yesterday, Saturday, April 21, the speeches took place on the arena floor as horses and riders wound their way around the huge space.
Richmond Valley mayor Robert Mustow and general manager Vaughan Macdonald sat with former state MP Chris Gulaptis who secured state funding when he held the Seat of Clarence. Federal MP Kevin Hogan was there because federal funding contributed to the $14million upgrade of the Casino Showground.
Current State MP Richie said the upgrade reminded him of the film Field of Dreams.
“Build it and they will come,” Mr Williamson said.
“I will never forget 2019 and this is a legacy project out of that tragedy.”
Mr Williamson was referring to the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund for the upgrade. Read about the project here.
Mr Macdonald said in 2016 he stood at the showground with Mr Gulaptis who said, “get ready and I’ll get the money.”
And what a huge project it has been with 80 race stables, 22 outdoor yards and a 50metre equine pool.
There is power for van sites and the sand track at the racecourse has been upgraded. There are also 40 undercover overnight stables.
Mr Macdonald said 42 contractors from the region were used in the upgrade – 15 were local businesses.
“This project has also been an economic stimulus,” he said.
At the centre oval at the racecourse Casino Campdraft ran an event on the day.
Here are the results for the 2024 Casino Showgrounds Opening Jackpot Novice Campdraft:
- 1st: Tim Carlill on Caralta Jojo (89)
- 2nd/3rd: Jack Maloney on Clifton Pines Jewels (88)
- 2nd/3rd: Tim Carlill on Havarna (88)
- 4th/5th: Donna Clements on Clifton Pines Special (85)
- 4th/5th: Blake Bale on Lilly (85)
Highest cutout was Jacob Brown on Mallanganee Adele
- Judge: Mat Rippon
- Cattle donors: Mark and Leticia McCormack Steven and Liesa Clark Rhys and Natahlia Clark.
See all the pictures at indyNR.com.
This article appeared on indyNR.com on 21 April 2024.
