An ambitious vision to transform the Reserve into one of Victoria’s most important and attractive destinations for community activity, has been unveiled.
A bold vision and future for the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve unveiled
Caulfield Racecourse Reserve, situated just 12km from the CBD and boasting an area more than ten times the size of the MCG, is set to become an iconic, community-driven precinct with a host of facilities that will be seamlessly integrated together.
Known largely as a world class racing venue, the Reserve also includes a vast amount of open space that sits predominantly within the Reserve’s centre, and which is set to be opened up to the public like never before.
Caulfield Racecourse Reserve Trust Chairperson, Sam Almaliki said that after years of underutilisation and underactivity, the Reserve will be transformed into an accessible and vibrant hub of activity for the community.
“We are incredibly excited and proud to release this plan which brings much needed attention to the future of the Reserve and addresses the issues that we’ve heard from the community and stakeholders through an extensive consultation process.” said Mr Almaliki.
Some of the highlight initiatives in the Plan include:
- A new sports hub featuring turf and synthetic sports fields, an indoor stadium, club room, change facilities and café.
- Easier access to the Reserve’s vast open space with two new tunnels and improved access points for vehicle, pedestrians, and cyclists to enter.
- A walking / running / cycling trail around the perimeter of the Reserve.
- Brand new community and event spaces that can cater to differing sizes.
- Family friendly spaces including a community garden and nature-based play to engage children.
“Dedicated year-round, multipurpose sports facilities will provide opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to take part in a variety of indoor and outdoor activities.” said Mr Almaliki.
In addition to new state-of-the-art sporting facilities, the Reserve will also feature dedicated spaces for events of all sizes, ranging from large scale experiences to smaller community events.
As a place for recreation and enjoyment, the Reserve’s natural features, walking tracks and recreational space will be greatly enhanced under the 15-year plan.
“We want to encourage people to find their own place within the Reserve, creating a multitude of experiences, places and ways to connect.” said Mr Almaliki.
“There is no other place in Victoria that combines all the elements of premier events, a sports hub and community spaces within the natural environment as will the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve.” Mr Almaliki added.
The Trust is seeking submission from all stakeholders and the community on the draft Land Management Plan by Friday,14th August 2020. The Trust is also inviting expressions of interest from potential partners to help bring the projects and initiatives outlined in the plan to life.
“We are ready to get these projects off the ground and are inviting interested organisations to join us and make it happen.” Mr Almaliki said.
While many initiatives will require longer term funding and investment, the Trust is focused on achieving some quick wins for the community by making access and signage improvements a priority, including digital signage and upgrades to pedestrian and cycle paths.
The draft Land Management Plan is now open for public feedback. The Caulfield Racecourse Reserve Trust invites everyone to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime transformation and help us deliver and realise our vision for the Reserve.
WE WANT YOUR INPUT TO HELP US REALISE OUR VISION
You can view the draft Land Management Plan and provide your input or complete an Expression of Interest until Friday 14th August 2020. Please visit www.crrt.org.au/draftlmp to get involved.