Relocation plans still on track

By Elizabeth Lillis
RELOCATION of Pakenham Racecourse out of central Pakenham remains on the agenda.
Chief executive of Pakenham Racing Club Terry Macdonald said the committee was committed to investigating options for the move.
“It is an objective of the club,” he said.
“There is not a quick solution.
“There are many things to consider but it is a focus for the future,” he said.
Mr Macdonald said part of his work over the four years had been focused on investigation of the possible relocation and this would continue.
Mr Macdonald said the club was seeking a site outside the Pakenham urban area for the track and new hospitality services to be located.
“It’s a long way to go,” he said.
Mr Macdonald said the move was part of a longterm plan by the club that could take up to ten years to realise.
The Cardinia Shire Council prefers institutional use of the site, such as an education facility or medical facility in the case of relocation by the club.
Council took this position when adopting the Pakenham Town Centre Urban Design Framework in July 2004.
A renovation of Racers Entertainment Complex, which is owned by the club, is planned for this year.
“A refurbishment will be carried out on the bistro and the gaming room and an additional outdoor area will be added,” Mr Macdonald said.
Mr Macdonald said a 10year master plan had also been developed for the complex.
The club has recently purchased two hectares of land adjacent to the entertainment complex.
Mr Macdonald said the complex would include accommodation, function rooms and sporting facilities, for activities such as squash and a gym.
“We would be looking at creating something like a country club,” he said.
Mr Macdonald said the racing club was focused on capturing a good share of the local hospitality market.
Mr Macdonald said the club was in a strong financial position.
“We are the second most profitable club after the Victorian Racing Club,” he said.
Mr Macdonald said the club was a nonprofit organisation and worked to put money back into the local community.