Prepared for Wodonga City Council … · · 2013-01-31Prepared for Wodonga City Council ... 4.2.1...

Draft Report

Prepared for Wodonga City Council

Prepared by: RecRelief/ SGL Consulting Group Pty Ltd in Association with Michael

Smith and Associates Landscape Architects and Wodonga City Council

Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan 19 November 2012

Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page i Commercial in Confidence

T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S

1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................... 3

1.1 PROJECT SCOPE ..................................................................................................................... 3

2 2008 MASTER PLAN REVIEW ........................................................................................................... 3

2.1 LAND OWNERSHIP – WODONGA RACECOURSE ................................................................. 6

3 SITE REVIEW ..................................................................................................................................... 7

3.1 LAND OWNERSHIP AND TENANCY ........................................................................................ 7 3.1.1 Tenant Arrangements ............................................................................................................ 8 3.1.2 Management of the Precinct .............................................................................................. 8 3.1.3 Central Booking System ......................................................................................................... 9 3.1.4 Vision for the Precinct ............................................................................................................ 9

4 MARKET RESEARCH AND CONSULTATION .................................................................................. 11

4.1 SUMMARY OF KEY STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS .................................................................. 11

4.2 ISSUES AND TRENDS FOR THE PRECINCT ............................................................................. 14 4.2.1 Sport and Recreation Trends .............................................................................................. 14 4.2.2 General Leisure Trends Impacting on Sport and Recreation Participation and

Facilities ................................................................................................................................................ 14 4.2.3 Comparison of National/State Sport and Recreation Participation Trends .............. 15

4.3 DEMOGRAPHIC REVIEW ...................................................................................................... 16 4.3.1 Current Population Profile ................................................................................................... 17 4.3.2 Ethnicity ................................................................................................................................... 18 4.3.3 Education ............................................................................................................................... 18 4.3.4 Income .................................................................................................................................... 19

5 RECOMMENDED MASTER PLAN STRATEGIC DIRECTION ............................................................ 20

5.1 ACCESS AND EGRESS .......................................................................................................... 20 5.1.1 Improved Front Entrance on Hamilton Smith Drive ........................................................ 20 5.1.2 Richardson Street Entry ........................................................................................................ 21 5.1.3 Formalise the North West Corner Car Park ...................................................................... 21

5.2 CATTLE YARD USAGE ............................................................................................................ 22

5.3 EXHIBITION CENTRE .............................................................................................................. 22

5.4 NELL WILSON PAVILION IMPROVEMENTS ........................................................................... 23

5.5 BULL RING.............................................................................................................................. 23

5.6 BULL SHED .............................................................................................................................. 24

5.7 TURF CLUB AREA AND RACECOURSE .................................................................................. 24

5.8 WODONGA SHOW SOCIETY LAND (INCLUDING BOB PRITCHARD ARENA) .................... 24

5.9 INFIELD AND SPORTS GROUNDS.......................................................................................... 25

5.10 CRITERIUM CYCLING CIRCUIT/CYCLOCROSS ............................................................... 25

5.11 ON SITE HORSE TRAINERS PRECINCT ............................................................................... 26

5.12 GENERAL RESERVE IMPROVEMENTS ................................................................................ 26 5.12.1 Children’s Playground...................................................................................................... 26 5.12.2 Event Office ....................................................................................................................... 26 5.12.3 Services Supply .................................................................................................................. 26 5.12.4 Fencing ............................................................................................................................... 26 5.12.5 Reserve Signage ............................................................................................................... 27 5.12.6 Summary of Future Directions ......................................................................................... 27

Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page ii Commercial in Confidence

6 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ............................................................................................................... 30

D I R E C T O R Y O F T A B L E S

Table 2.1 Review of 2008 Master Plan Progress ................................................................................. 4 Table 4.1 Summary of Key Issues – Stakeholder Consultation ....................................................... 11 Table 4.2 Population Profile ................................................................................................................ 17 Table 4.3 Age Profile ........................................................................................................................... 17 Table 4.4 Birthplace Summary ........................................................................................................... 18 Table 5.1 Summary of Infrastructure Development Proposals ....................................................... 27 Table 5.2 Summary of Non Infrastructure Development Proposals ............................................... 28 Table 6.1 Implementation Plan .......................................................................................................... 30

Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan- 20 November 2012 Page 3 Commercial in Confidence

1 I N T R O D U C T I O N

The Wodonga Council has outlined in its 2009-2013 Council Plan a strategic objective that the

Council’s open spaces and recreational facilities are managed, developed and improved

for long- term sustainability and public safety. A key action to achieve this objective is to

work with all stakeholders to implement the Wodonga Racecourse Revitalisation Project.

The Wodonga Racecourse Revitalisation Project was a project, which commenced in 2005

and was driven by the Victorian Government and the Racing Industry. The objective of

Racing Victoria’s Revitalisation Project was to improve utilisation and sustainability of country

racecourse precincts, by creating better linkages with local and regional communities

through the development of multi-use facilities that can be used by all members of the local

community. The vision for these community precincts was to become attractions in

themselves as venues for business, sporting and cultural events, while also playing a vibrant

role in regional Victoria’s social and cultural life.

In 2007, Racing Victoria Limited received funding from the Victorian Government for Master

Planning at five regional racecourse sites which included the Wodonga Racecourse Precinct.

The Regional Racecourse Revitalisation Project – Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan was

completed in 2008. This Master Plan provided a direction for all stakeholders to enhance the

wider racecourse precinct.

A progress report on the Wodonga Revitalisation Project was presented at the June 25, 2012

Council meeting. This report identified that a range of infrastructure improvements have

been completed by various stakeholders including the Council, Wodonga Turf Club or other

stakeholders at the precinct.

The council highlighted that with the completion of a number of infrastructure projects, the

Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan was now at a stage where a review and update of the

document was required to ensure further development and enhancement of the precinct for

the current and future users.

1.1 PROJECT SCOPE

The aim of the project was to review and update the Regional Racecourse Revitalisation

Project – Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan.

The scope of work included:

Review existing Master Plan and its currency;

Internal and external consultation with key stakeholders;

Identify key issues and trends for the precinct;

Evaluate outstanding and new infrastructure projects;

Develop a precinct vision to guide future management and infrastructure

implementation; and

Preparation of an updated Wodonga Racecourse Master Plan.

2 2 0 0 8 M A S T E R P L A N R E V I E W

In 2008, Racing Victoria Limited, Country Racing Victoria and Harness Racing Victoria

appointed Stratcorp Consulting to develop five Master Plans as part of the Victorian Racing


Industries Racecourse Revitilisation Project. The Wodonga Racecourse Reserve Master Plan

was one of these.

Key features of the Master Plan were identified. The following table outlines the key features

and the current state of implementation of the plan. A number of recommendations have

been completed or are in progress. Additional elements have also been identified through

recent stakeholder consultation and research undertaken.

The following table provides an outline of the proposed development recommendations from

the 2008 Master Plan and the progress of these recommendations:

Table 2.1

Review of 2008 Master Plan Progress

Item Description

Progress

A Improvements to infield sports

fields.

Completed.

B Installation of Multipurpose

hardstand.

Not completed. Support completion.

C Infield development for major

events (power, water, data and

lighting requirements).

Not completed. Review requirements of the entire

reserve.

D Construction of wetlands. Completed.

E Installation of criterion cycling

circuit and infield access road.

Not completed. Support feasibility into cycling facilities

including cyclo cross in Wodonga.

F Installation of walking trail (infield). Not completed. Support the development of walking

trails to infield, sports grounds and infield facilities.

G Improvements to racetrack

surface.

Partially completed. Support continued track works by

the Turf Club.

H Relocation of infield vehicle

access point.

Not completed in line with the Master Plan. A second

access point has been created but not used.

I Relocation of horse pool. Completed.

J Improvements to infield

pedestrian access (from Northern

Car Park).

Not completed. Support development of pedestrian

underpass.*

K New infield pedestrian access

(from spectator precinct).

Not completed however, not currently required if no

infield hardstand provided.

L Installation of racetrack perimeter

fencing.

Not completed. Support the continuation of race

track fencing.

M Potential commercial

development.

Not completed. **

N Grass car parking (Northern Car

Park).

Support the formalisation of this car park to provide an

all weather car park.

O Potential future relocation of

trainers.

Not supported. Trainers to remain on site.

P Improvements to main entrance. Not completed. Support improvements and changes

to main entrance.

Q Demolition or sale of racecourse

house.

Not completed. Support the demolition of house.

R New multipurpose facility. Not completed. Support the need for additional

space for Pony Club, Show Society and Events office.

Undertake feasibility into the development of a


multipurpose facility or utilisation of existing Nell Wilson

Pavilion for additional activities.

S Demolition of various aged

buildings.

Not completed. Support demolition of unused Pony

Club building. Consider demolition of other buildings

after multipurpose building feasibility study completed.

T Upgrade access road, car park

and spectator precinct.

Not completed. Work with the Show Society to

develop a landscape plan in line with the entire

reserve.

U Upgrade Wodonga Exhibition

Centre (multi purpose floor).

Not completed. Currently no one floor surface will suit

variety of uses.

V Creation of additional lawn

space.

Not completed. Maintain bull ring for its current use.

W Potential future function room. Completed. Member’s facilities provided.

X Future residential development. Not applicable at this stage.

Y Whitebox Rise residential

development.

Information only.

Z Road duplication. Information only.

* Application for funding submitted to the Sport and Recreation Victoria minor facilities

funding program 13/14.

** Currently, Council planning does not support the development of a commercial

accommodation development at this site.

Analysis of the need for accommodation in Wodonga has revealed significant latent

demand for the provision of high end accommodation in the core area of Wodonga's CBA.

While there are 6 motels on the periphery of the CBA there is currently no accommodation in

the core of Wodonga's CBA. Construction has commenced on an 80 room Quest Apartment

building which is envisaged for completion by mid 2013. Research indicates there is sufficient

demand for additional high end accommodation however the demand for accommodation

outside the CBA has not been established.

Primarily, the attraction of accommodation centres around the identified need to enhance

the night time economy in Wodonga's CBA through the provision of facilities in close walking

distance to shops and entertainment and conference facilities (eg. The Cube Wodonga,

High Street and restaurants). This forms an important component of the feasibility behind the

provision of accommodation services and the development of the CBA.


2.1 LAND OWNERSHIP – WODONGA RACECOURSE


3 S I T E R E V I E W

The Wodonga Racecourse Precinct is located approximately 1.5km from the Wodonga CBD.

The site includes the Crown Land, Council owned land and privately owned Show Society

land. The site consists of the following facilities:

Race track;

Horse training facilities;

Race facilities including grandstand, TAB, catering, members, officials and jockey’s

facilities, horse stalls, ticket boxes, caretakers facilities and public amenities;

Racetrack infield contains 7 sports grounds for Auskick and 2 grounds for cricket

including a small pavilion;

The Nell Wilson Pavilion (multipurpose pavilion with commercial kitchen);

Bull Shed (cattle and horse shed);

Car parking at Richardson Street and corner of Hamilton Smith Drive and Brockley

Street;

Cattle yards;

Exhibition Centre (John Hamilton Smith Pavilion) used for indoor horse and cattle

events;

Outdoor Bull Ring;

The privately owned Wodonga Show Society land contains the following facilities:

Bob Pritchard Arena (outdoor grassed area used for events and equestrian activities);

Land housing the pony club shed, show society administration shed, two other sheds

occupied by the Murray Railway Modellers and the Wodonga Woodcrafters, another

shed to house pony club equipment and an amenities block.

The front entry to the precinct is via Crown Land on the corner of Hamilton Smith Drive and

Wilson Streets. The main entry road then enters Show Society land with this road servicing

tenants of the Show Society and those accessing the Council owned facilities (Exhibition

Centre, Nell Wilson Pavilion, and amenities cleaning) and the Turf Club facilities.

The service road to the Council and Turf Club facilities does not allow for parking in this area.

It is used by service and delivery vehicles as well as Turf Club administrators. Parking for users

of this area is provided off Richardson Street.

On large event and race days, parking is facilitated on the Wodonga Show Society land for a

fee and the open space across Wilson Street at the neighbouring school is also used. The

Richardson Street car park and the Hamilton Smith car park are also used.

3.1 LAND OWNERSHIP AND TENANCY

The site is unique in structure as it is comprised of three separate land owners representing a

combination of publically owned land (Wodonga Council and Crown Land managed by

Department of Sustainability and Environment Committee of Management) and privately

held land (Wodonga Show Society Inc.).

The Crown Land Reserve is managed by a nine member publicly elected Committee of

Management appointed by DSE. The Committee is made up of Council representation and

resident clubs.


Areas of the reserve are managed directly by different bodies. These include:

Wodonga Show Society – manages the privately owned Show Society land including

the Bob Pritchard Arena, land tenanted by the Pony Club, Boarder and District Show

Jumping Club, Wodonga Woodcrafters, the Murray Railway Modellers, land used by

campers and the main entry road leading into the reserve.

Wodonga City Council – manages the land containing the Wodonga Exhibition

Centre, the Bull Ring, the Bull Shed, the cattle yards, the amenities near the Turf Club

area and onsite horse trainers and maintenance shed areas. Council also maintains

the infield for sporting club use, infield roads, and emergency vehicle track within the

race track, the wetlands, car parks and sports pavilion.

The Wodonga and District Turf Club – manage and maintain the race track and all

other race facility infrastructure under a lease arrangement.

The land ownership arrangements can be seen in 2.1 above.

3.1.1 Tenant Arrangements

Tenants of Show Society land have usage agreements with the Show Society and pay

an annual fee for their tenure. This varies based on their usage.

The Show Society charge a fee for use of the land for car parking for major events and

race day parking.

The Show Society charge for casual camping on their land.

Council charges for use of the Exhibition Centre, Bull Shed, Bull Ring, Cattle Yards and

the Nell Wilson Pavilion for events and activities

Onsite horse trainers have month by month lease arrangements directly with Council,

however, the lease arrangements are currently under review.

Infield tenants (Auskick and Cricket) pay a seasonal allocation to the Committee of

Management.

The Wodonga and District Turf Club have a lease for their facilities.

Larger events utilising the precinct pay an agreed fee to the the Council, Turf Club or

Committee of Management.

3.1.2 Management of the Precinct

The Crown Land component of the precinct is managed by a nine member publicly elected

Committee of Management appointed by DSE. The Committee of Management consists of

Council representation and the resident clubs located at the reserve including the Wodonga

Show Society.

The Council owned areas of the precinct are managed directly by Council and its various

departments including Events and Cultural Services (events and events facilities) and the

Recreation Department.

The privately owned Wodonga Show Society Land is directly managed by the Wodonga

Show Society.


3.1.3 Central Booking System

Whilst the precinct is owned and managed by three different bodies, the precinct is used for

large scale events, often requiring the use of all three areas of the reserve. It is understood

that there is a centralised booking system managed by a Council staff member. Events and

regular reserve activities are recorded and information provided to all regular tenants and

committee members.

However, event bookings can be managed by Council, the Turf Club or the Wodonga Show

Society depending on who takes the initial request. This creates confusion for those running

events (i.e. no one central person to deal with) and the proposed fees and charges can vary

significantly.

The separate land ownership and management arrangements continue to present a

significant problem to all users of the reserve and can be particularly confusing to major

event organisers. This could result in events being moved to alternative venues.

3.1.4 Vision for the Precinct

Whilst the separate land ownership and management arrangements continue to present a

significant problem to all users of the reserve, it also presents a problem when determining a

shared vision for the precinct.

Currently, the vision for the precinct is:

“To become an attraction in itself as a venue for business, sporting and cultural events,

whilst also playing a vibrant role in Regional Victoria’s social and cultural life”.

From the consultation undertaken, it was made clear by the Wodonga Show Society that

they would prefer to manage their own buildings and facilities without interference from the

Council, Turf Club or Committee of Management, that they control the usage of their land

and what takes place on it and that the road into the precinct be relocated to Crown Land

so as to not impinge on Show Society space or be the responsibility of the Show Society to

maintain.

It is difficult to achieve the vision outlined above when one of the land owners/managers in

the precinct essentially wants to be left alone. The precinct relies on the Show Society land to

achieve the vision outlined and the Show Society relies on other areas of the precinct to run

their annual show.

Therefore, the Master Plan has been reviewed and updated with this in mind, which has

resulted in a Master Plan that is somewhat compromised and unlikely to achieve the vision.

However, the Master Plan could look somewhat different if the land ownership and

management issues were streamlined to one central owner/manager or if the land owners

agreed to work co-operatively in developing and implementing a shared vision for the entire

precinct.

Until such time as land ownership and management arrangements are streamlined, the

revised Master Plan best reflects the needs and wishes of all the stakeholders under the

current ownership and management arrangements.

Council may wish to consider undertaking further investigations into alternative land

ownership and management options. If changes are made in this area, this Master Plan

should be updated to reflect greater opportunities for the precinct.


The various tenancy options are outlined below:

Council becomes the COM for the Crown Land component;

Turf Club have a lease over the race track, turf club facilities and trainers facilities

(would need two leases, one Crown and one Council);

Turf Club could have a lease over the above plus the Council owned land housing the

Exhibition Centre, Nell Wilson, Bull Shed, Bull Ring etc.

Council purchases the Wodonga Show Society Land and the Show Society are given

a licence for the areas of the site they require for the Show;

Wodonga Show Society leases their land to the Council or the Wodonga and District

Turf Club.

The various management options that could be considered include:

Council manages the precinct with the various tenants operating under lease or

licence agreements;

Council manages all bookings including events and informs and works with tenants to

co-ordinate activities;

Council undertakes all maintenance other than maintenance outlined in lease

agreements;

Council determines set fees and charges for events, licenses and leases, seasonal

tenancy agreements and casual usage;

Council collects income generated from the use of the site;

An advisory committee is formed to oversee the management of the precinct

comprising of tenants;

The Turf Club take over management responsibilities for the precinct as outlined

above rather than Council doing it.


4 M A R K E T R E S E A R C H A N D C O N S U L T A T I O N

The following section provides a summary of the market research and consultation

undertaken and includes:

Summary of key stakeholder interviews;

Key issues and trends for the precinct; and

Demographic review.

4.1 SUMMARY OF KEY STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS

A stakeholder consultation program was undertaken including face to face meetings with

various stakeholders.

The following stakeholders provided feedback into the development of the Master Plan:

Wodonga City Council

o Recreation Department

o Parks and Gardens

o Events

o Building Maintenance

o Cultural Services

Wodonga and District Turf Club

Wodonga Show Society Inc.

Wodonga Pony Club

Onsite Trainers

Wodonga Midgets Auskick Football Club

Men’s Shed

Albury Wodonga Woodcrafters

Murray Valley Modellers

Albury Wodonga Cricket Club

Albury Wodonga Cycling Club

Boarder and District Show Jumping Club

The following table provides a summary of the issues raised in the face to face consultation

sessions:

Table 4.1

Summary of Key Issues – Stakeholder Consultation

Stakeholder

Group

Issues Raised

Wodonga City

Council

The Exhibition Centre required heavy vehicle access for delivery of saw

dust for soft floor preparation. It also requires containment for saw dust

located outside the facility.

Improved paving or hard landscaped areas around the Bullring and the

Nell Wilson Pavilion.

Cover the remaining cattle yards.

Investigate hard surface flooring of cattle yards.

More shade over Bullring is required.

An event office is required.


Need to improve access and entrance issues.

The standard of surface on the Bob Pritchard Oval could be improved

with a review of power and water access to the site being required.

Improve power access throughout the site.

Improve path network and lighting throughout the site.

Improve signage throughout the reserve.

The bookings, event management and reserve management issues do

not work and need improving.

Underground access to the infield of the track is required by the Parks

Department.

Storage of horses and show jumping on sports grounds degrades the

playing surface.

Improve fencing, landscaping and bollards throughout the site to

eliminate the need for temporary fencing.

Improve sports ground lighting.

Need temporary shade for cricket.

Need temporary shelters for parents and spectators of infield users.

Need formalised paths to improve access for parents and spectators to

infield.

Need to finish fencing around wetlands for safety.

Define road way access to the infield and formalise parking around the

pavilion.

A centralised public address system is required.

Enhance the Nell Wilson Pavilion with heating, cooling, acoustic

treatment and storage options.

Investigate track crossing treatments like a drop in cricket pitch.

Wodonga and

District Turf

Club

The track requires widening at the 242m mark of the main straight and

camber requires reconstruction.

Toilet facilities are required in the function room or a cover to the existing

outdoor toilets is required.

Land management issues are a major impediment to achieving

outcomes.

Pedestrian and vehicle access across the track requires further

consideration.

Remove house at the front of the reserve to improve entrance. Will need

to consider how this revenue will be replaced.

Consider vehicle and pedestrian traffic from surrounding streets into the

reserve.

Nell Wilson Pavilion should be upgraded to cater for larger events.

Improve drainage to Jack In The Box Creek.

Support the development of a hard stand inside the track for marquees

or parking.

Improve security issues to the reserve to prevent horses escaping

overnight.

On Site Horse

Trainers

The number of track crossings need to be reduced or maintained so they

are level with the track.

Road through trainers area needs to be sealed and drainage improved.

Improve lighting within trainer’s area (check if existing lighting can be

fixed).

Trainers staff leave gates open. Need automatic gates to prevent a

horse from escaping.

Fencing around training area could be improved to ensure security and

safety.

Horse walkers or an area to take a horse for a walk on site is required.

Consider location of manure pit.

Tenancy and leases need to be sorted out.


Wodonga

Men’s Shed

Looking for a permanent home (shed) but can’t be too close to a

residential area due to noise and car parking issues.

Potential use of the Bull Shed however, impractical to remove all

equipment and materials out for the show and other event use

(approximately 8 days per year). The Bull Shed would need to be

upgraded to accommodate alternative use.

Require a permanently equipped workspace.

Could permanently set up half of the Bull Shed for the work space with

provision for indoor storage of materials. There is potential to share the

Bull Shed with other community groups.

The site may look messy.

The Men’s Shed are in favour of the establishment of a stand-alone

purpose built community hub within the reserve area.

Wodonga

Show Society

Support the upgrade of the Nell Wilson Pavilion.

Require additional facilities on show day for traditional agricultural

activities.

Further investigate access issues as the main access road into the reserve

is rarely used for Show Society activities however, the Show Society is

responsible for maintaining it.

Car parking and camping is an important revenue stream for the Show

Society.

Remove Pony Club and Boarder and District Show Jumping Club

building and extend Show Society Building.

Show Society should be responsible for dealing with the buildings on their

own land.

Wodonga

Midgets

Auskick

Football Club

Support the development of a pedestrian and one way vehicle

underpass to preserve the track.

Continue construction of dam fencing.

Extend perimeter path alongside fencing.

Improve draining of ovals 1, 3 and 6 and top dress.

Wodonga

Woodcrafters

Want to ensure vehicle access to their shed if access road moved.

Would like improved communication regarding events occurring at the

reserve.

Boarder and

District Show

Jumping Club

The Bob Pritchard Arena is the main outdoor arena used by the club

which has a poor surface and is not irrigated. The arena needs to be

raised, irrigated and requires drainage.

Require fencing of two arenas on event days for safety reasons on the

Bob Pritchard Arena. Currently use star pickets and bunting.

Require day yards on event days.

Require upgrade to horse wash facilities.

The exhibition centre caters for skilled riders (the arena is below full size

creating a tight course)

Wodonga

Pony Club

The Club’s highest priority is a new club house (the existing Pony Club

shed is not in use due its poor condition).

The Club requires canteen facilities, meeting space and an area to hold

education sessions for its members.

Albury

Wodonga

Cycling Club

Support the development of a criterion track on the inside of the

racetrack for members and the general public to cycle away from

traffic.

Two internal links could also be included to provide variety to users.

A cyclo cross course could also be included in the infield.

If such facilities were to be built, storage would be required by the

various cycling clubs for equipment.

Murray Valley

Modellers

Currently lease a shed from the Show Society for their activities and are

happy with the facilities and management of the reserve.


4.2 ISSUES AND TRENDS FOR THE PRECINCT

The following provides a summary of current sport, recreation and leisure trends that may

impact upon the development and future use of the Wodonga Racecourse and Recreation

Reserve.

4.2.1 Sport and Recreation Trends

The following summary of general sport and recreation trends impacting on Victorians and

their demand for recreation, sport and leisure activities has been developed using a range of

research documents including:

Participation in Exercise and Recreation and Sport: Australian Sports Commission

Annual Report 2009

Victorians Participation in Exercise and Recreation and Sport (2001/2002): Sport and

Recreation Victoria in collaboration with the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation.

Community Sport Counts: Local Sport and Recreation in Victoria Regional Summary

Report 1 2004 – Sport and Recreation Victoria

A combination of these documents findings in relation to wider general sport and recreation

trends and facility provision trends in Victorian and Australian Society over the past decade

are summarised in the following sections.

4.2.2 General Leisure Trends Impacting on Sport and Recreation Participation and

Facilities

The following highlights the range of general sport and recreation trends that are likely to

impact on Victorian Communities in the future:

A gradual aging of the population. As life expectancy increases, birth rates stay low

and the “baby boomers” of the 1950s and 1960s grow older. This is placing a new

demand on providing specific older persons programs and program areas.

Flexibility in the times when people recreate. As demands on people’s time increases

and work practices change people are seeking to take their sport and recreation at

different times, over a broad spread of hours and at facilities that offer a lot of

activities under the one roof. Indoor pools and health and fitness facilities are

particularly attractive and getting easier to use as many are open 12 to 16 hours, 7

days a week.

Increased variety in sport and recreation options. People’s sport and recreation

options are changing towards newer more varied activities offered over a greater

range of timeframes compared to previous decades where limited variety in activities

and scheduling occurred. This has supported the trend to more multi-use facilities to

attract a broader range of users as well as multiple programs to meet different needs

at the one centre.

Constraints to sport and recreation participation. Lack of time, lack of facilities close

by, family and work constraints, health problems and cost of service or use of facilities

are the main constraints to many Victorians sport and recreation participation. The

development of targeted markets of users, programs and services at many aquatic

and health and fitness centres has assisted in reducing some of these participation

constraints.


Changing employment structures, trading and work hours. These trends often makes

participation in traditional sport and recreation activities difficult and therefore people

are looking for facilities that are open longer hours and have a lot of activity options

at the one site. This makes opportunities such as indoor pools and health and fitness

centres and indoor sports courts attractive as their long opening hours and days open

per year means usage can be made in a wide range of social, training, competition,

educational settings.

Different people want different activities. The broadening different cultural, age,

gender of the population sees the need for facilities to offer potential users a much

more varied range of programs and services than previously offered. All year round

available indoor and outdoor sport and recreation facilities also provide the greatest

diversity of activities throughout the different seasons impacted by Victoria’s weather.

Provision of high standards and quality of facilities and services. People are more and

more looking for high standard, high quality facilities and services to meet their sport

and recreation needs. This has also seen the trend for indoor facilities becoming very

popular as they allow activity in safe and secure spaces in all weather and

environmental conditions. This leads to indicating that building low standard, low cost

facilities will not attract the maximum user market.

Desire for activities to be affordable. The development of multi-purpose aquatic,

fitness and indoor sport centres has enabled the high operating cost activity of

aquatics (in many cases) to be cross subsidised by more profitable activity areas such

as health and fitness, food and beverage and entertainment areas. This has enabled

many facilities to keep general entry fees low to encourage use whilst seeking users

who want special services to contribute at a greater level to the cost of such activities.

Recognition of strong links between physical activity and health. Preventative health

care and active lifestyles are very important to many Victorians and aquatic and

health and fitness and indoor and outdoor sport activities are becoming a large part

of people’s activity choices.

Expectations of equity and access. Today’s society expects people with special

needs to be catered for in public facilities. This has seen improved design features to

increase accessibility to and within such facilities. Added to this is the growing array of

programs and activities offered to people of all different abilities, physical condition

and skill levels.

4.2.3 Comparison of National/State Sport and Recreation Participation Trends

The Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (ERASS) is a joint initiative of the Australian Sports

Commission and the state and territory government agencies responsible for sport and

recreation, and was first conducted in 2001.

This publication presents results from the fifth annual ERASS collection, which was conducted

in 2005.

ERAS collects information on the frequency, duration, nature and type of activities that are

participated in by persons aged 15 years and over for exercise, recreation and sport during

the 12 months prior to interview. Participation means active ‘playing’ participation, and does

not include coaching, refereeing and being a spectator or activities related to work or

household chores.1

1 Participation in Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey 2009 Annual Report


During the 12 months prior to interview in 2009, an estimated 11.1 million persons aged 15

years and over participated at least once per week1 in physical activity for exercise,

recreation and sport, a participation rate of 69.2% Household or garden chores, or activities

that were part of work were not included. However, the participation rate drops markedly

when higher frequency of involvement is considered. An estimated 7.1 million persons aged

15 years and over exercised three times per week or more (44.2%). A total of 4.9 million

persons (30.8%) either did not participate in any activity, or participated less than once per

week in the 12 months prior to interview

National and State leisure participation trends from the ERASS particularly relevant to the

Eltham Lower Park are detailed in the table below:

Category

National

Participation Rate %

2009

Victorian

Participation Rate %

2009

Walking for recreation 39.9% 37%

Cycling 11.6% 11.5%

Running 9.3% 8.8%

Australian Rules Football N/A 6.7%

Outdoor cricket 3.6% 4.0%

Outdoor Soccer 2.6% 3.1%

4.3 DEMOGRAPHIC REVIEW

The City of Wodonga is located in the Ovens-Murray Statistical Division of Victoria, on the New

South Wales border, about 300 kilometres north-east of Melbourne. The City of Wodonga is

bounded by the Murray River in the north, Towong Shire in the east and Indigo Shire in the

south and west.

The Census population of City of Wodonga in 2011 was 35,519, living in 14,748 dwellings with

an average household size of 2.5.living in an area of 43,280

hectares (433 Km2).

The following Section summarises the key population and demographic characteristics and

trends likely to impact future participation in sport and recreation activities in the area. The

population and demographic profiles are based wherever possible on the 2011 ABS Census

data.

© Standing Committee on Recreation and Sport 2006


4.3.1 Current Population Profile

The Wodonga area age profile is summarised in Table 4.2 for residents of the total

municipality:

Table 4.2

Population Profile City of Wodonga 2011 2006 Change 2006

to

2011

Number % City of

Wodonga

+2,542 % City of

Wodonga

+2,542

Population

(excluding O/S

visitors)

35,519 100.0 100.0 +1,263 100.0 100.0 +1,263

Males 17,503 49.3 48.7 +1,279 49.2 48.8 +1,279

Females 18,016 50.7 51.3 +1,946 50.8 51.2 +1,946

Australian citizens 32,879 92.6 91.3 +1,739 93.8 92.6 +1,739

Eligible Voters

(citizens aged 18+)

24,361 68.6 68.7 2006 to

2011

68.6 68.6 +2,542

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2006 and 2011. Compiled and presented by .id,

Table 4.3

Age Profile

Age Profile

City of Wodonga 2011 2006 Change

Five year age

groups (years)

Number % City of

Wodonga

Number % City of

Wodonga

2006 to

2011

0 to 4 2,698 7.6 6.9 2,380 7.2 6.8 +318

5 to 9 2,461 6.9 6.6 2,453 7.4 7.0 +8

10 to 14 2,552 7.2 6.9 2,535 7.7 7.5 +17

15 to 19 2,768 7.8 7.6 2,660 8.1 7.9 +108

20 to 24 2,649 7.5 7.3 2,517 7.6 7.6 +132

25 to 29 2,325 6.5 6.5 2,124 6.4 6.2 +201

30 to 34 2,264 6.4 6.2 2,229 6.8 6.4 +35

35 to 39 2,364 6.7 6.4 2,402 7.3 7.0 -38

40 to 44 2,476 7.0 6.8 2,401 7.3 7.0 +75

45 to 49 2,389 6.7 6.6 2,325 7.1 7.3 +64

50 to 54 2,232 6.3 6.7 2,137 6.5 6.7 +95

55 to 59 2,139 6.0 6.1 1,917 5.8 6.0 +222

60 to 64 1,874 5.3 5.5 1,349 4.1 4.2 +525

65 to 69 1,370 3.9 4.1 1,015 3.1 3.5 +355

70 to 74 1,021 2.9 3.3 833 2.5 2.8 +188

75 to 79 766 2.2 2.5 755 2.3 2.7 +11

80 to 84 630 1.8 2.1 558 1.7 2.0 +72

85 and over 541 1.5 1.9 387 1.2 1.5 +154

Total 35,519 100.0 100.0 32,977 100.0 100.0 +2,542 Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing 2006 and 2011. Compiled and presented by .id, the

population experts.

From 2006 to 2011, City of Wodonga's population increased by 2,542 people (7.7%). This

represents an average annual population change of 1.5% per year over the period.

The largest changes in age structure in this area between 2006 and 2011 were in the age

http://www.abs.gov.au/census

http://home.id.com.au/what-does-id-do/what-does-id-do

http://www.abs.gov.au/census

http://home.id.com.au/what-does-id-do/what-does-id-do


groups:

• 60 to 64 (+525 persons)

• 65 to 69 (+355 persons)

• 0 to 4 (+318 persons)

55 to 59 (+222 persons)

4.3.2 Ethnicity

Table 4.4 shows the country of birth of Wodonga residents and the difference

between 2006 and 2011.

Table 4.4

Birthplace Summary

Birthplace - summary

City of Wodonga 2011 2006 Change

Birthplace Number % City of

Wodonga

Number % City of

Wodonga

2006 to

2011

Total Overseas

born

3,389 9.5 9.9 3,064 9.3 9.0 +325

Non-English

speaking

backgrounds

1,988 5.6 5.7 1,782 5.4 4.8 +206

Main English

speaking countries

1,401 3.9 4.3 1,282 3.9 4.2 +119

Australia 30,714 86.5 85.4 28,671 86.9 86.0 +2,043

Not Stated 1,416 4.0 4.6 1,260 3.8 5.0 +156

Total Population 35,519 100.0 100.0 32,995 100.0 100.0 +2,524

Between 2006 and 2011, the number of people born overseas increased by 325 or 10.6%, and

the number of people from a non-English speaking background increased by 206 or 11.6%.

The largest changes in birthplace countries of the population in this area between 2006 and

2011 were for those born in:

• India (+66 persons)

• United Kingdom (+51 persons)

• Sri Lanka (+50 persons)

The ABS indicates the following relevant statistical trends on education, housing, income,

employment and families.

4.3.3 Education

Overall, 39.0% of the population aged 15 and over held educational qualifications, and 50.8%

had no qualifications. The largest changes in the qualifications of the population in City of

Wodonga between 2001 and 2006 were in those with:

• Vocational qualifications (+1,007 persons)

• Bachelor or Higher degrees (+760 persons)

• Advanced Diploma or Diplomas (+451 persons)

• No qualifications (-420 persons)


4.3.4 Income

Overall, 9.2% of Wodonga households earned a high income, and 23.1% were low income

households.


5 R E C O M M E N D E D M A S T E R P L A N S T R A T E G I C D I R E C T I O N

The following section provides a summary of the future directions proposed for the continued

development of the Wodonga Racecourse Reserve. The proposed future directions have

been suggested based on the consultation undertaken with identified stakeholders and

research completed.

The future directions outlined in this report are not listed in priority order.

5.1 ACCESS AND EGRESS

The following provides a summary of the key issues and recommendation in relation to access

and egress within and around the site.

5.1.1 Improved Front Entrance on Hamilton Smith Drive

The existing entry into the Racecourse from Hamilton Smith Drive contains a vehicle access

road through Show Society land servicing the various facilities located on Show Society Land

(Show Society Office, Pony Club Shed, Murray Valley Modellers Shed, Woodcrafters Shed and

community camping). Those accessing the Wodonga Turf Club Administration, the Nell Wilson

Pavilion and the Exhibition Centre also use this entrance. Pedestrian access is also provided

from Hamilton Smith Drive directly into the Wodonga Turf Club area past the front entry ticket

box.

The consultation process identified the need to review the current access (both vehicle and

pedestrian) into the racecourse and create a more prominent and welcoming point of entry

into the facility.

Discussions with the Show Society indicated a concern with the current arrangement where

vehicle access to the racecourse is via an access road located on land owned by the Show

Society. The review has identified a range of opportunities to create a new racecourse

vehicle access point, improve the pedestrian access via Hamilton Smith Drive and Wilson

Street and improve the point of entry to the facility.

The following recommendations are made to improve the pedestrian access to the

Wodonga Racecourse from Hamilton Smith Drive:

Undertake a landscape plan to create an updated point of entry to the facility.

Demolish or remove the existing care takers house leased by the Wodonga and

District Turf Club and integrate as part new point of entry and pedestrian access.

Create a thematic landscaped entrance consistent with the Wodonga Racecourse

Landscaping.

Extend the pedestrian walkway from the Racecourse Grandstand to the landscaped

entrance on Hamilton Smith Drive.

Install new quality fencing to delineate Wodonga Racecourse from the Wodonga

Show Society Land (some permanent chain mesh fencing exists however, temporary

fencing is also used almost permanently). The fencing should include the opportunity

to provide panels that slide back on themselves to enable the area to be opened up

for events.

Create taxi zones and drop off areas at the front entrance on Hamilton Smith Drive.

Consider a proposal from the Wodonga Show Society to relocate the Hamilton Smith

Drive entry and road through Show Society land to an alternative location. Detailed

plans have yet to be finalised at the time of writing this report.


Figure 1 Current Hamilton Smith Drive Entrance and Example Temporary Fencing

5.1.2 Richardson Street Entry

Currently, the Richardson Street entry is used on race days, show days and other large event

days for parking, unloading of cattle and horses and delivery of equipment and supplies. An

opportunity exists to upgrade the Richardson Street entry as an alternative vehicle entry point

to better service the facilities on Council and Crown Land.

It is recommended that a traffic management plan be undertaken to ascertain the impact of

any changes in traffic flow to this area on nearby residents and to determine the best

configuration for traffic flow to and around the facilities such as the Exhibition Centre, Nell

Wilson Pavilion, Bull Shed and Bull Ring and Turf Club facilities. The expected parking

requirements should also be considered as part of this plan.

The following recommendations are made to improve the Richardson Street entry and

parking area:

Improve the appearance of the entrance to create a welcoming vehicle point of

entry to the facility.

Formalise existing parking with some marked parking bays, landscaping and

additional access points to existing infrastructure such as the Turf Club Administration

area (create a loop road around the Nell Wilson Pavilion and the existing amenities).

Relocate the existing green Show Society Shed located within the car park to a

location on Show Society Land.

Acquire the house block located next to the existing Show Society shed and

consolidate the land ownership in the area to Council owned.

To enable the successful implementation of this recommendation a review of the impact to

residents on Richardson Street and Phillip Streets will be required including the provision of

appropriate traffic treatments to mitigate against any negative impacts.

5.1.3 Formalise the North West Corner Car Park

The current unsealed car park located on the corner of Brockley St and Hamilton Smith Drive

is predominantly used by the Wodonga Midgets Auskick Football Club and other infield users.


It was reported that the car park surface is often muddy and wet and is currently not marked

or formalised.

The following recommendations are made to improve the North West Car Park and entrance

for user of the infield sports grounds:

Provide an all weather surface.

Support the proposed pedestrian underpass to the infield.

Provide sealed pathways from the car park to the location of the underpass.

Create pedestrian link to the main entrance from this car park.

Figure 2 North West Car Park

5.2 CATTLE YARD USAGE

The cattle yards are used on show days and for cattle sales and shows. However, the cattle

yards are predominantly used by hirers of the Exhibition Centre (for cattle sales). There is an

opportunity to review the optimum configuration of the cattle yards in line with the provision

of new horse stalls within the Turf Club area. Consideration could be given to the following:

Review of the number of cattle yards required and their optimal configuration.

Consider an opportunity to maximise cattle yards and horse stalls in partnership with

the Turf Club.

Remove the amenities block in the middle of the cattle yards.

Further investigate alternative use of the Bull Shed for activities such as Men’s Shed or

Theatre Company set building. Would need to determine if existing use could be

accommodated in a review of the cattle yards and horse stalls.

Any changes to the cattle yards should be determined in light of the use of the Exhibition

Centre.

5.3 EXHIBITION CENTRE

The Exhibition Centre is used for cattle sales, equestrian events, show jumping, rodeos, alpaca

sales and dog events. There is concern from the Wodonga and District Turf Club that usage of

the Exhibition Centre for cattle sales may decrease, which may impact on the need for cattle

yards and the Bull Shed.


Discussion with key stakeholders indicated that saw dust flooring does not suit all uses of the

Centre. It is difficult to provide one type of multi-purpose flooring to suit all types of events, as

each activity requires a different soft floor surface.

Consideration should be given to the following:

Complete a strategic business plan for the Exhibition Centre, cattle yards and use of

the Bull Shed for cattle and horse events.

Further investigation into appropriate multipurpose floor surfaces should continue,

however, until such time that suitable multipurpose floor is available, dressing of the

exhibition centre for each event will be required.

5.4 NELL WILSON PAVILION IMPROVEMENTS

The Nell Wilson Pavilion provides an indoor event space of approximately 500m2. The facilities

are relatively basic and include a commercial kitchen and a multipurpose space suitable for

an indoor showing space on show days and event days as well as catered functions. The

review indicates the need to upgrade the facility to improve the quality, amenity and

functionality to support a greater range of events and activities.

The following recommendations are made to improve the usage and functionality of the Nell

Wilson Pavilion:

Internal storage for user groups for equipment,

tables and chairs.

Heating and cooling.

Acoustic treatment to the building.

External lighting of the building for safer night

time use.

Review access from the Richardson Street car

park and Show Society car park.

Figure 5 Nell Wilson Pavilion

5.5 BULL RING

The Bull Ring is used by the Wodonga Pony Club, the Wodonga Show Society and for cattle

sales. The Bull Ring is a multipurpose outdoor area used for a range of activities. The area has

the advantage of tiered seating for spectator viewing. Consultation as part of the review

confirmed the value of the facility and the need to retain as part of the range of facilities

provided at the site. The following recommendations are suggested to improve the

functionality of the space:

Install shade over spectator tiered seating.

Figure 6 The Bull Ring


5.6 BULL SHED

The Bull Shed is used for approximately 3 days during the Wodonga Show and for

approximately a week during the World Cup Jumping event. The most valuable horses and

bulls are housed in the Bull Shed during these events. The facility is not used at other times of

the year. As indicated above there is an opportunity to relocate the current uses of this

facility to the cattle yards or horse stalls in the Turf Club if they were upgraded which would

enable the shed to be redeveloped for alternate uses i.e. Men’s Shed or Theatre Company

set development.

The following recommendations are made to improve the functionality and usage of the

facility:

Review paving and access to the Bull Shed as part of the landscape plan, and traffic

management plan from the Richardson Street car park and to and from the cattle

yards, Bull Ring and Exhibition Centre.

Investigate options for other community usage or tenants of the building such as the

Men’s Shed or Theatre Company.

Alternatively, consider the size of the facility required to house the cattle and

consolidate an indoor cattle yard within the existing cattle yards or proposed new

horse stalls in the Turf Club area.

5.7 TURF CLUB AREA AND RACECOURSE

Discussions with the Wodonga Turf Club identified a range of issues and improvements

required that will continue to support the Club in their efforts to maintain and improve the

race track and racecourse facilities. This includes a number of activities:

Undertake works on the race track to widen sections and improve camber.

Improve drainage to Jack in the Box Creek.

Construct toilets within the members lounge or provide undercover access from

members lounge to existing amenities block.

Investigate options for improved security of horses on site including automatic gates or

relocation of vehicle access through trainer’s area.

Relocation of 18 existing horse stalls and construction of 40 new horse stalls.

Install a sealed pathway along the front lawn to prevent damage to the lawn on

event days.

5.8 WODONGA SHOW SOCIETY LAND (INCLUDING BOB PRITCHARD ARENA)

The Wodonga Show Society land includes the Bob Pritchard Arena and the “Car Park and

Camping” space. Within the camping and car parking space is a number of green

Colorbond sheds housing permanent tenants and storage, as well as a public amenities and

shower block. The main entry road runs through the show society land.

The following recommendations are made to improve the functionality of the space:

Erect permanent fencing to delineate the boundaries between the Show Society

Land and the remainder of the site where possible. Some areas will need to contain

removable fencing to open up the space on event days utilising all areas.

Develop a themed landscape plan throughout the area consistent with the

remainder of the site.


Plan for the upgrade of the Bob Pritchard Arena to improve the quality of the surface

for regular users including the Wodonga Pony Club and the Boarder and District Show

Jumping Club.

Review the provision of horse stalls and wash facilities at the Bob Pritchard Arena and

determine the most suitable location and configuration. Consider fencing to contain

horses on the Bob Pritchard Arena.

Develop a plan for a small area for camping.

Further investigate the need to demolish, relocate or rebuild the Pony Club building

located on Show Society land. At last meeting, the Show Society indicated it might be

possible for the Pony Club to undertake some works on the floor and re-occupy the

space again.

The Show Society to further consider their need for expansion of their existing shed

which may or may not accommodate Pony Club activities.

Consider the need for an events office on site when the management issues are

finalised.

Relocate the Show Society shed in the Richardson Street car park to Show Society

Land off Wilson Street.

Consider a proposal from the Wodonga Show Society to relocate the Hamilton Smith

Drive entry and road through Show Society land to an alternative location. Support

the upgrade of the current or relocated road being upgraded to asphalt. Detailed

plans yet to be finalised at the time of writing this report.

There may be an opportunity to consolidate a number of the buildings/sheds on the

site to improve the functionality of the area. Show Society to determine the need for

additional buildings on Show Society land for Show Society activities. It is

recommended that temporary marquees may be sufficient for one off events.

5.9 INFIELD AND SPORTS GROUNDS

There are currently nine sports grounds located within the centre of the racecourse including

two cricket pitches. The sports grounds are predominantly used by the Wodonga Midgets

Auskick Football Club. A number of improvements to the infield sports grounds have been

undertaken since the completion of the Master Plan in 2008. Discussions with the sporting

clubs identified the following recommendations to support the continued use of this area by

the Auskick Football Club and any other sporting clubs as a potential overflow area for

training.

Installation of a multipurpose hard stand.

Underground pedestrian access to infield from Northern Car Park.

Construction of sealed car park.

Continuation of security fencing around the water storage.

Continue to improve ground surface conditions including top dressing and returfing

where required to local level standard.

Provision of temporary shelters for Auskick and Cricket spectators.

Relocation of vehicle access point to the infield. Eliminate need for vehicles to enter

horse trainer’s area.

5.10 CRITERIUM CYCLING CIRCUIT/CYCLOCROSS

As part of the 2008 Master Plan the opportunity to develop a criterion cycling circuit was

identified. Since the development of the Master Plan however no further work has been

undertaken on this opportunity. Discussion with the Albury Wodonga Cycling Club indicated

that there is still strong support for the development of the facility. The Club indicated that

the following clubs would make use of the facility if developed:

Albury Wodonga Cycling Club;

Lavington Panthers Cycling Club;


Albury Wodonga Mountain Biking Club; and

Albury Wodonga Triathlon Club.

It is recommended that a more detailed feasibility study into the development of the circuit

including the capital and operational cost be undertaken. The potential to develop a cyclo

cross track through the infield should also be reviewed as part of the feasibility study.

Consideration should be given to the ability to access the facilities outside of the early

morning horse training and Auskick and whether this is the most appropriate location for such

a facility.

5.11 ON SITE HORSE TRAINERS PRECINCT

There are currently nine horse trainers on site with leases on a month to month basis with

Council. The following recommendations are made to improve the functionality of the onsite

horse trainer’s area:

Check existing light poles and light fittings in the horse trainer’s area are working or

can be fixed.

Seal road through the trainer’s area and provide adequate drainage.

Maintain crossings across the race track.

Finalise trainers leases and leased areas to determine if there is space on site for a

shared horse walker.

Review current fencing to ensure security and safety of horse training area.

Review position of the manure pit for access by trainers and the general public.

Relocate infield vehicle access path outside of fenced horse trainer’s area.

5.12 GENERAL RESERVE IMPROVEMENTS

The following issues and improvement opportunities were also identified as part of the

stakeholder consultation and research undertaken:

5.12.1 Children’s Playground

Consider upgrading or relocating the children’s playground at the front entrance to the turf

club once a detailed landscape plan is completed.

5.12.2 Event Office

Further investigate the feasibility of providing an event office to service the entire site for

major events when management issues are finalised.

5.12.3 Services Supply

Complete a services plan for the precinct including a review of power, water, data, sewer,

drainage, lighting and flood lighting of sports grounds for major events and activities. Also

consider the provision of a reserve public address system.

5.12.4 Fencing

Internal fencing of the site requires review as part of a landscape plan development.

Temporary fencing is used significantly throughout the site on a more “permanent” basis. A

more permanent solution to fixed and movable fencing is required.

External precinct fencing also requires a review to ensure security of the site.


Figure 7 Example of temporary fencing used on

a more permanent basis.

5.12.5 Reserve Signage

A themed approach to reserve signage is required to identify significant facilities, entrances,

access areas etc. However, it should be noted that many tenants were reluctant to have

their buildings signed to reduce the chance of vandalism.

5.12.6 Summary of Future Directions

Table 5.1

Summary of Infrastructure Development Proposals

Item Description

Estimated Cost

1 Installation of multipurpose asphalt hardstand area 200m x 35m for

a variety of uses including event displays, exhibitions and car

parking.

$250,000

2 Provide infield vehicle access point for general public with

pedestrian underpass to separate public vehicle entry from the

horse trainer’s area. A report commissioned by GHD proposes a

concept design allowing for medium rigid vehicles such as fire

trucks, ambulances or maintenance vehicles with minimal use.

$280,000

3 Improved infield pedestrian access with the development of an

underpass linking the car park to the infield.

Included in above

4

Upgrade the emergency vehicle track inside the race track from

the vehicle/pedestrian underpass to the hard to a sealed surface

to enable cars entering the infield to park on the hardstand.

$63,000

5 Provide a sealed vehicle path from the hard stand on the western

side of the infield to the pavilion for service vehicles and deliveries.

Provide a turn-around point at the pavilion, not intended for

parking.

$30,000

6 Continue a granitic sand pedestrian path from the pavilion to the

eastern side of the infield.

$15,000

7 Installation of race track perimeter fencing (1800mm high) to

address current safety issues).

TBC

8 Formalise car park area with an all weather surface for sports

participants and racegoers. Crushed rock with concrete Kerb &

Channel.

$220,000

9 Create a pedestrian link to the racecourse main entrance from $10,000


the formalised car park. Include a sealed pathway to the

pedestrian underpass.

10 Demolish or remove the existing care takers house on DSE land

leased by the Turf Club. Integrate this area into a new point of

entry.

$10,000

11 Create a taxi zone and drop off area to the Hamilton Smith Drive

entry. Nominal 2 bays.

$15,000

12 Consider a proposal from the Wodonga Show Society to relocate

the Hamilton Smith Drive entry and road through Show Society

land to an alternative location. Support the upgrade of the

current or relocated road being upgraded to asphalt. Detailed

plans yet to be finalised at the time of writing this report. Include

demolition and earthworks.

$40,000

13 Formalise the Richardson Street car park with marked parking

bays with additional vehicle access to existing infrastructure.

$30,000

14 Relocate the existing Show Society shed in the Richardson Street

car park to a location on Show Society land.

$5,000

15 Remove amenities in the middle of the existing cattle yards. $5,000

16 Upgrade the Nell Wilson Pavilion to improve usage and

functionality, by creating internal storage, providing heating and

cooling, external lighting and acoustic treatment.

$60,000

17 Install shade over Bull Ring tiered seating. $30,000

18 Complete security fencing around the wetlands. $15,000

19 Continue to improve the sports ground surfaces to local level

standard.

$10,000

20 Provide temporary shelters for spectators to each sports ground. $20,000

21 Seal road through the trainer’s area and provide adequate

drainage. Assume 250Lm x 5m + 100Lm x 3m wide x 1,550m2 &

Kerb & Channel.

$100,000

22 Turf Club to undertake maintenance and upgrade of the race

track as planned and required.

TBC

23 Improve drainage of the track to Jack in the Box Creek. TBC

24 Develop toilets in the members lounge or provide an undercover

walkway to the existing amenities in the Turf Club area.

TBC

Table 5.2

Summary of Non Infrastructure Development Proposals

Item Description

Estimated Cost

1 Complete a services plan for the precinct including a review of

power, water, data, sewer, drainage, lighting and flood lighting of

sports ground requirements.

$20,000

2 Complete a themed landscape plan for the entire precinct

including an updated point of entry at Hamilton Smith Drive and

Richardson Street entry. The landscape plan should also

incorporate a continued theme within the Wodonga Show

Society land, permanent fencing to delineate Show Society land

from Crown Land and Council land with removable panels,

relocation or upgrade of the playground, and the consolidation of

a number of sheds on Show Society land to improve the

functionality of the space. The landscape plan should include

pedestrian links from car parks to facilities throughout the site. A

fencing plan around the perimeter of the precinct to enhance

$50,000


security should be developed including a review of fencing

around the trainer’s area.

3 Acquire one house block owned by the Show Society next to the

shed in the Richardson Street car park and consolidate land

ownership in this area to Council owned.

Valuation required

4 Undertake a traffic management and vehicle access plan for the

precinct including vehicle access to all facilities within the

precinct, car parking requirements, Hamilton Smith Drive entry

road configuration, vehicle underpass requirements and impact

on surrounding streets if vehicle flows were to be altered.

$15,000 - $20,000

5 Plan for the upgrade of the Bob Pritchard Arena to improve the

quality of the surface for regular users including the Wodonga

Pony Club and the Boarder and District Show Jumping Club.

$10,000

6 Review the provision of horse stalls and wash facilities at the Bob

Pritchard Arena and determine the most suitable location and

configuration. Consider fencing to contain horses on the Bob

Pritchard Arena.

Internal resources

7 Develop a plan and formalise an area for camping on Show

Society land.

$10,000

8 Further investigate the need to demolish, relocate or rebuild the

Pony Club building located on Show Society land. At last meeting,

the Show Society indicated it might be possible for the Pony Club

to undertake some works on the floor and re-occupy the space

again.

Internal resources

9 The Show Society to further consider their need for expansion of

their existing shed which may or may not accommodate Pony

Club activities.

Internal resources

10 Consider the need for an events office on site when the

management issues are finalised.

Internal resources

11 Review the position of the manure pit if public access is to be

restricted to the trainer’s area.

Internal resources

12 Formalise horse trainer’s leases and consider the provision of a

shared horse walker in this area.

Internal resources

13 Develop a reserve signage plan to identify significant facilities,

entrances and access.

$5,000

14 Undertake a strategic business plan for the use of the Exhibition

Centre, cattle yards and Bull Shed and the economic benefits of

investing into these facilities.

$10,000

15 Continue to investigate if a multipurpose floor surface is

appropriate to cater for the variety of events held in the Exhibition

Centre.

Internal resources

16 Review the number of cattle yards required and their optimal

configuration. Consider an opportunity to maximise cattle yards

and horse stalls in partnership with the Turf Club.

Included in 14.

17 Further investigate alternative use of the Bull Shed for activities

such as Men’s Shed or Theatre Company set building. Would need

to determine if existing use could be accommodated in a review

of the cattle yards and horse stalls.

Included in 14.

18 Undertake a feasibility study into the development of a cycling

criterion track and other cycling facilities in the Wodonga area.

$25,000


6 I M P L E M E N T A T I O N P L A N

Based on the consultation and key findings, the table below details the strategic directions,

recommended actions, priorities and stakeholders responsible for implementing the actions.

The priority column within the table indicates a timeline for each recommended

action/output and includes the following key:

Short – 0-3 years

Medium – 4 – 6 years

Long – 7 years plus

The responsibility column within the table identifies that stakeholder primarily responsible for

leading the delivery ofthe action:

CL = Council

TC = Turf Club

SS = Show Society

Table 6.1

Implementation Plan

Item Description

Priority Responsibility

1 Installation of multipurpose asphalt hardstand area

200m x 35m for a variety of uses including event

displays, exhibitions and car parking.

S CL

2 Provide infield vehicle access point for general

public with pedestrian underpass to separate public

vehicle entry from the horse trainer’s area. A report

commissioned by GHD proposes a concept design

allowing for medium rigid vehicles such as fire trucks,

ambulances or maintenance vehicles with minimal

use.

S CL

3 Improved infield pedestrian access with the

development of an underpass linking the car park to

the infield.

S CL

4

Upgrade the emergency vehicle track inside the

race track from the vehicle/pedestrian underpass to

the hard to a sealed surface to enable cars entering

the infield to park on the hardstand.

S CL

5 Provide a sealed vehicle path from the hard stand

on the western side of the infield to the pavilion for

service vehicles and deliveries. Provide a turn-around

point at the pavilion, not intended for parking.

S CL

6 Continue a granitic sand pedestrian path from the

pavilion to the eastern side of the infield.

M CL

7 Installation of race track perimeter fencing (1800mm

high) to address current safety issues).

S TC

8 Formalise car park area with an all weather surface

for sports participants and racegoers.

M CL

9 Create a pedestrian link to the racecourse main

entrance from the formalised car park. Include a

sealed pathway to the pedestrian underpass.

S CL

10 Demolish or remove the existing care takers house on S TC


DSE land leased by the Turf Club. Integrate this area

into a new point of entry.

11 Create a taxi zone and drop off area to the Hamilton

Smith Drive entry.

S CL

12 Consider a proposal from the Wodonga Show

Society to relocate the Hamilton Smith Drive entry

and road through Show Society land to an

alternative location. Support the upgrade of the

current or relocated road being upgraded to

asphalt. Detailed plans yet to be finalised at the time

of writing this report.

S ALL

13 Formalise the Richardson Street car park with marked

parking bays with additional vehicle access to

existing infrastructure.

M CL

14 Relocate the existing Show Society shed in the

Richardson Street car park to a location on Show

Society land.

M SS

15 Remove amenities in the middle of the existing cattle

yards.

L CL

16 Upgrade the Nell Wilson Pavilion to improve usage

and functionality, by creating internal storage,

providing heating and cooling, external lighting and

acoustic treatment.

S CL

17 Install shade over Bull Ring tiered seating. S CL

18 Complete security fencing around the wetlands. S CL

19 Continue to improve the sports ground surfaces to

local level standard.

M CL

20 Provide temporary shelters for spectators to each

sports ground.

S CL

21 Seal road through the trainer’s area and provide

adequate drainage.

S CL/TC

22 Turf Club to undertake maintenance and upgrade of

the race track as planned and required.

S TC

23 Improve drainage of the track to Jack in the Box

Creek.

S TC & CL

24 Develop toilets in the members lounge or provide an

undercover walkway to the existing amenities in the

Turf Club area.

S TC

Item Non Infrastructure Developments

Priority Responsibility

1 Complete a services plan for the precinct including

a review of power, water, data, sewer, drainage,

lighting and flood lighting of sports ground

requirements.

S CL

2 Complete a themed landscape plan for the entire

precinct including an updated point of entry at

Hamilton Smith Drive and Richardson Street entry. The

landscape plan should also incorporate a continued

theme within the Wodonga Show Society land,

permanent fencing to delineate Show Society land

from Crown Land and Council land with removable

panels, relocation or upgrade of the playground,

and the consolidation of a number of sheds on Show

Society land to improve the functionality of the

space. The landscape plan should include

S ALL


pedestrian links from car parks to facilities throughout

the site. A fencing plan around the perimeter of the

precinct to enhance security should be developed

including a review of fencing around the trainer’s

area.

3 Acquire one house block owned by the Show

Society next to the shed in the Richardson Street car

park and consolidate land ownership in this area to

Council owned.

L CL

4 Undertake a traffic management and vehicle access

plan for the precinct including vehicle access to all

facilities within the precinct, car parking

requirements, Hamilton Smith Drive entry road

configuration, vehicle underpass requirements and

impact on surrounding streets if vehicle flows were to

be altered.

S CL

5 Plan for the upgrade of the Bob Pritchard Arena to

improve the quality of the surface for regular users

including the Wodonga Pony Club and the Boarder

and District Show Jumping Club.

M SS

6 Review the provision of horse stalls and wash facilities

at the Bob Pritchard Arena and determine the most

suitable location and configuration. Consider

fencing to contain horses on the Bob Pritchard

Arena.

M SS

7 Develop a plan and formalise an area for camping

on Show Society land.

S SS

8 Further investigate the need to demolish, relocate or

rebuild the Pony Club building located on Show

Society land. At last meeting, the Show Society

indicated it might be possible for the Pony Club to

undertake some works on the floor and re-occupy

the space again.

S SS

9 The Show Society to further consider their need for

expansion of their existing shed which may or may

not accommodate Pony Club activities.

S SS

10 Consider the need for an events office on site when

the management issues are finalised.

S ALL

11 Review the position of the manure pit if public access

is to be restricted to the trainer’s area.

M TC

12 Formalise horse trainer’s leases and consider the

provision of a shared horse walker in this area.

S CL

13 Develop a reserve signage plan to identify significant

facilities, entrances and access.

M CL

14 Undertake a strategic business plan for the use of the

Exhibition Centre, cattle yards and Bull Shed and the

economic benefits of investing into these facilities.

M CL

15 Continue to investigate if a multipurpose floor

surface is appropriate to cater for the variety of

events held in the Exhibition Centre.

M CL

16 Review the number of cattle yards required and their

optimal configuration. Consider an opportunity to

maximise cattle yards and horse stalls in partnership

with the Turf Club.

M CL

17 Further investigate alternative use of the Bull Shed for S CL


activities such as Men’s Shed or Theatre Company

set building. Would need to determine if existing use

could be accommodated in a review of the cattle

yards and horse stalls.

18 Undertake a feasibility study into the development of

a cycling criterion track and other cycling facilities in

the Wodonga area.

M CL


A P P E N D I X A : M A S T E R P L A N

Prepared for Wodonga City Council … · · 2013-01-31Prepared for Wodonga City Council ... 4.2.1...

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