NSW Government’s “Mini-City” Racecourse Bid Rejected

Members of the Australian Turf Club (ATC) have decisively chosen not to sell the Rosehill Gardens Racecourse to the New South Wales government, a proposal that aimed to transform the site into a “mini-city” to alleviate the ongoing housing crisis.

This plan involved a potential sale valued at AUD$5 billion, which would pave the way for the development of approximately 25,000 new homes.

Additionally, the deal promised almost AUD$2 billion in upgrades to strengthen other racing facilities across Sydney.

However, the proposal faced a significant setback as ATC members gathered at the Royal Randwick on Tuesday afternoon, where a ballot revealed that 56 percent voted against the sale, while 44 percent supported it.

The ATC chair, Peter McGauran, who aligned with NSW Premier Chris Minns in backing the proposal, expressed his personal disappointment following the decision.

“That means it’s finished, taken off the table, will not proceed in any shape or form into the future,

“It’s more of a challenge because we don’t have the funding that could have been available to us through the sale.”

He acknowledged the narrow margin of the vote and affirmed respect for the members’ decision, urging the club to now focus on its future.

McGauran also highlighted concerns regarding the funding for racecourses moving forward, underscoring the need for unity among members to address the decline in attendance at races. 

Premier Minns, who had previously characterised the sale as a “game-changer” for Western Sydney, acknowledged the disappointment stemming from the members’ decision.

“I think this would have been a great opportunity for Sydney, and the fact that it’s not going to be realised, is obviously disappointing,” Minns stated.

In light of this outcome, the Premier mentioned a plan B aimed at increasing housing availability closer to Sydney CBD, although specifics are yet to be disclosed.

He reinforced the crucial need for housing developments, asserting that despite potential objections, such initiatives are essential for Sydney’s future.

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