Racing and Gaming Minister Ljiljanna Ravlich said if re-elected, Labor plans to provide an extra $30 million over five years to extend the Regional Racecourse Infrastructure Grants Program (RRGIP).

An estimated $800,000 has been earmarked for Albany’s racing and harness clubs, with the split between the two clubs to be determined by Racing and Wagering WA.

Ms Ravlich said that under the proposal, the Albany Racing Club (ARC) will receive the majority of the funding for a new administration building including jockey and steward facilities.

The Albany Harness Racing Club has been promised funds to upgrade ageing machinery and stewards/vision facilities.

Ms Ravlich said the equine industry was was a great contributor to the region providing enormous flow-on benefits to businesses and the community.

“The ARC is the major training base in the Great Southern for thoroughbred participant.

“It is important it maintains its place within the industry.”

ARC president Lesley Solly said the club had put up with poor administration facilities for years.

She said the adverse work conditions faced by local staff, jockeys and stewards was not good for morale.

“This will bring us into line with other regional courses,” Mrs Solly said.

The ARC built a sand track after receiving $1m from the original $20m RRGIP.

The regional announcement comes after Labor’s promise to catapult Perth onto the international horse-racing stage with a multi-million festival for the state.

Premier Alan Carpenter said if Labor is re-elected it will provide funding to enable Perth’s racing carnival to become one of the biggest in the nation.

“Perth’s classic race, the Railway Stakes, will be promoted as an iconic invitational event, aimed at attracting the best Australian and international horses,” Mr Carpenter said.

“The race will follow on from the Melbourne Cup and form the centrepiece of an international festival, celebrating the best that WA racing and pacing has to offer.”