Sydney’s Tabcorp Park Menangle hosted the nation’s premier harness racing event, the Inter Dominion Championship for the third year in a row in 2015 and new research shows it continues to have a huge impact on the state’s economy.
Research conducted by consultants IER found that the three-day Inter Dominion Championship generated $12.7 million for the local economy, created over 100 jobs, brought in 1,721 out of state visitors staying a total of 9,721 nights.
A slight increase in total visitor numbers drew more people come from outside of Sydney while also increasing the number of female attendees, over taking men with a 51 per cent share of the total audience.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Racing Troy Grant said the strength of Sydney’s racing industry is yielding benefits for the broader economy by consistently drawing interstate visitors.
“Harness Racing NSW together with the team at Tabcorp Park have once again organised a quality event that continues to bring people from far and wide to see quality racing,” Mr Grant said.
“It’s also fantastic to see more women get along to the trots, with an audience share of 51 per cent, up from an average of 43 per cent over the previous two years.
Chairman of Harness Racing NSW Rex Horne expressed the collaborative approach taken in securing and promoting the Inter Dominion Carnival has set the standard for others.
“The collaboration of the Government through Destinations NSW, the controlling body (HRNSW) and principal Club (NSWHRC) of harness racing supported by our willing sponsor Tabcorp ensured the success of the Inter Dominion.” Mr Horne said
“We showcased harness racing locally, state-wide, nationally and internationally hosting the World Conference and Drivers Championship as adjuncts to the pacing Carnival this year.
“The $12.7 million benefit to the NSW economy demonstrates the need for this partnership to be again instituted and we look forward to the next opportunity.”
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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