STAFF WRITERS
HORSERACING
LATROBE Valley Racing Club is stepping it up. Literally, the LVRC have finally finished an initiative instigated by the completion of the new Traralgon Greyhound Track. As a consequence of the new greyhound track, which was slightly elevated compared to the old track, the result was the impairment of the horseracing view to the far side at Glenview Park. In partnership with Greyhound Racing Victoria, LVRC received some funding to build a viewing mound in the straight of the horseracing track spectator area. LVRC contributed funding to include many power outlets for future use for major carnival and expos. Lighting was included to make the venue more user-friendly for evening events. The result is amazing, and is expected to be well-received by patrons. This is one of many projects that have been completed in the past two years, much to the delight of the Traralgon-based club. Finally all jockey’s and stewards rooms have full climate control air conditioners/heaters for their comfort. As well as this, the roofing at the stable, gutter upgrade, winners room upgrade, Glenview Bar flooring upgrade and the race callers and camera towers are all getting or in the process of being upgraded. All these areas need attention as the facility almost reaches 50 years since first being built. All the audio/visual cabling and equipment has been upgraded, and at long last, Traralgon is all digital which helps all Racing Victoria television and race day technicians. The new system is compatible with the industry satellite trucks and telecommunication equipment. LVRC Chairperson Frank Bezzina said he was so pleased with the new, reinvigorated committee, all lending a hand to do many of the voluntary hours required to run such a club. Latrobe Valley Racing Club is run solely by volunteers, and all these upgrades are achievable because of this as it saves many dollars. The club is in full swing and preparing for their two major meets: Morwell Bowling Club Derby Day – Saturday, November, 4, and; Bet365 Traralgon Cup – Sunday, December, 3. A traditional event coming up is the season launch for current members and for people who wish to sign up as members on the night. Dinner is provided with a complimentary drink on arrival. The Latrobe Valley Racing Club has also stepped up the roll it plays with Racing Victoria, as it has become a major player in official trials for trainers and owners who have horses preparing to race. The track holds up really well in the Winter and is perfect for these kind of trials. So along with the racing and trialling, the facility is becoming a great location for other organisation to meet and use for themselves. The latest partnership the LVRC has ventured into is a wonderful friendship with the Cowwarr Football-Netball Club. Cowwarr FNC organise bingo every Saturday evening and the turnout has been amazing. LVRC has wished Cowwarr well for the next football/netball season, and hopes the joint venture continues well into the future. Bezzina said running the club has been lots of hard work, with many hands-on hours for both him and his faithful committee, but the fruits of their efforts are really starting to show. “Let’s hope the weather turns out great for our race days so everyone can enjoy the day out at the track at Glenview Park,” he said.
