Golf could make way for gallops in Sydney’s west under plans to sell an inner-west turf club and reshape the city’s horse-racing network.
The Australian Turf Club (ATC) has signed a deal with Seven Hills RSL, owner of the Penrith Golf Club, to explore transforming the 70ha course into a state-of-the-art racing and training hub.
The proposal includes more than 300 stables, training facilities and the potential for a second racecourse to meet growing demand in Western Sydney and help modernise the industry’s ageing infrastructure.
ATC chairman Peter McGauran said the Penrith project would be central to the next chapter of racing in New South Wales.
“Our vision includes the construction of another Group 1 racecourse that would secure Sydney’s place as a global racing hub,” he said.
“Penrith is one of the fastest-growing areas in NSW and the site ticks all the boxes for the next generation of racing.”
The Penrith development forms part of the ATC’s $1.9-billion infrastructure strategy, which includes a major upgrade of Warwick Farm Racecourse and the proposed sale of Rosehill Gardens for housing.
Selling Rosehill is key to unlocking both projects.
The NSW Government has earmarked the site for up to 25,000 new homes, a proposed Metro station and other infrastructure.
Proceeds from the deal could hit $5 billion, with more than $370 million expected to go towards the Penrith build.
In Sydney’s south-west, the ATC is planning an $800-million revamp of Warwick Farm.
The redevelopment would include a new grandstand, more than 600 stables, a 463m straight track and possibly a second racing surface.
According to the ATC, this reshuffle responds to Western Sydney’s rapid population growth and aims to secure the long-term sustainability of the sport.
A new Racing Advisory Board of mostly independent experts would oversee how funds are allocated.
ATC members will vote on the Rosehill Gardens proposal on May 27.
