The Territory Labor Government is providing Darwin Turf Club with a $12 million grant to build a multi-purpose stand, which will see the creation of around 70 local jobs during construction and boost the international tourism appeal of the Darwin Cup Carnival.

Construction of the multi-purpose stand will start immediately after the 2019 Great Northern Darwin Cup Carnival and is expected to be ready for the 2020 Carnival season.

A three level stand will enable the Darwin Turf Club to market the carnival into Asia and southern states, boosting capacity of the Darwin Cup Carnival and increasing tourism in the Top End.

The stand will provide uninterrupted views of the racecourse, enabling the Darwin Turf Club to provide and market a world-class experience in Darwin.

The top 2 levels will also have the ability to be transformed into private boxes that will assist with securing the many corporate clients that attend the Great Northern Darwin Cup Carnival each year.

Quotes from the Minister for Primary Industries and Resources, Paul Kirby:

“When you invest in infrastructure projects such as this one, you are investing in local jobs. This project will see the immediate creation of around 70 local construction jobs – which is great for the industry.

“Events like the Darwin Cup Carnival attracts thousands of people every year – including many from interstate and overseas – so it is fantastic to see the expansion of the Carnival with the provision of this new stand.

“The expanded Darwin Turf Club facilities incorporated in the multi-purpose stand have wider benefits for tourism, investment attraction and the local community.”

Quote from Chairman of Darwin Turf Club, Brett Dixon:

“This new multi-purpose stand is a game changer that takes the Great Northern Darwin Cup Carnival and the Territory to another level. This exciting new facility enables us to now strategically market our already successful Cup Carnival into Asia and the Southern States which has not been possible in the past. Having the ability to provide this style of race day experience throughout the Great Northern Darwin Cup Carnival will allow us to partner with Tourism NT and local operators to lure the Asian visitor to experience the many attractions and events that only Darwin has to offer.

“I would like to thank, congratulate and commend the NT Government that continues to have the vision and support the many NT sporting facilities and events that have positive economic impacts for us all.”

Media contact: Cameron Angus 0404021192