Farm remodel at centre of Rosehill sale plans

A major redevelopment of Warwick Farm is at the forefront of the Australian Turf Clubs’s plans in its outline for the distribution of funds from a potential sale of Rosehill racecourse.

The ATC is pledging to spend $802 million on racing and training facilities at the Western Sydney venue, including the construction of a new grandstand, 600 on-course stables and the design of a quality track, if the Rosehill sale goes ahead.

Its plans also feature the implementation of a second, inside racing surface similar to Randwick’s Kensington course and five training tracks, while the current course proper would be levelled and reconfigured to boast a 463m-long straight.

Randwick would also be given a $557 million facelift under the proposal, including upgraded member facilities and the addition of a Lifestyle Club, while a further $10 million would be invested in essential improvements to Canterbury.

ATC members received an information pack regarding the potential sale of Rosehill on Tuesday including documents outlining the club’s scheme, with chairman Peter McGauran saying they had listened to stakeholders and delivered on their desire for more detailed information.

“This is the most significant infrastructure investment plan in ATC history,” McGauran said.

“Importantly, the proposal would ensure Sydney retains two world-class Group One racing venues long after Rosehill Gardens closes in 2031, including a new training base in Western Sydney with further Group One racing potential.

“Warwick Farm would be transformed into one of the most advanced racing and training centres in the Southern Hemisphere and importantly would also have a second racing surface for midweek meetings.

“With up to 600 on-course stables, world-class training and veterinary facilities, and premium member and spectator amenities, it would be a true jewel in Western Sydney’s sporting and lifestyle crown.

“These are funded commitments, backed by independent governance structures, long-term financial oversight, and the support of a majority of the ATC Board.”

The ATC has also pledged to deliver a loyalty package to members if the sale of Rosehill is given the green light.

This would include five years of free membership for all financial members as at April 30, 2025; free lifetime membership for those who have shown 20 or more years of cumulative loyalty; and $1000 annually in food and beverage credits for members at ATC venues for five years.

McGauran said the member’s package was directed at helping to revitalise “flagging raceday attendances while growing new membership over time”.

The ATC also remains committed to acquiring and developing an additional high-quality training facility in Sydney with the potential for future Group 1 racing, while outlining plans to safeguard funds received by any sale of Rosehill through the establishment of a Racing Advisory Board – made up of an independent panel of members, industry participants and experts – to advise on the allocation of proceeds.

It is also keen to create a Racing Future Fund with the goal of identifying stable long-term revenue sources outside wagering and government influence.

The members’ vote on the sale of Rosehill has been delayed until May 27 to allow time for the plans to be carefully considered.