Racing Minister Rob Hulls yesterday visited Bendigo to announce $97,000 in State Government funding to install 2520 metres of rail.

Mr Hulls said the rails had the potential to revolutionise horse racing around the world.

“The safety of jockeys and horses is paramount to a healthy racing industry and, once installed, these new plastic running rails will ensure the highest standard of safety for race participants anywhere in Australia,” he said.

“Bendigo is one of Victoria’s premier racing venues and produces about 1350 starters in races each year, which is why the State Government is funding this project in conjunction with Racing Victoria Limited and Country Racing Victoria.”

The Government is contributing more than $2 million to the project through its $86 million Regional Racing Infrastructure Fund with Racing Victoria and Country Racing jointly contributing $231,500.

The rails take three to four days to install and Bendigo is expected to have new rails before its next meeting.

“MawSafe rails are plastic, as opposed to aluminium, and are lighter than previous running rails making the installation a simpler, safer and faster process.”

Mr Hulls also announced yesterday that Kyneton would receive $70,000 to install 1820 metres of the rails.