In a significant development, the members of the Australian Turf Club (ATC) convened today in Randwick and voted against the proposed $5 billion sale of the Rosehill Gardens Racecourse to the New South Wales government. This decision, which ends lengthy discussions surrounding the sale that have been ongoing since 2023, was taken amid considerable controversy and multiple delays.
The proposal had garnered mixed reactions from club members, with a close margin of 56.1% voting in favour compared to 43.9% against. Regardless, the outcome signifies that the sale is now off the table, as expressed by ATC chairman Peter McGauran, who stated, “That means it’s finished, taken off the table, it will not proceed in any shape or form.” McGauran expressed his disappointment regarding the vote but acknowledged the members’ decision as binding and indicated a need for the club to focus on future prospects.
The initial plan included the transformation of the site into a residential area comprising 25,000 new homes, alongside the development of a metro station as part of the Metro West line. This undertaking was envisioned as a means to alleviate the ongoing housing crisis in NSW, a cause strongly supported by Premier Chris Minns. The rejection of the sale is thus a setback for government efforts to expand housing and infrastructure in the area.
In terms of future plans, the ATC board had proposed redeveloping Warwick Farm racecourse as an alternative venue, projected to cost around $800 million. Interestingly, members participating in the vote were also incentivised with free drinks and a five-year membership subscription, adding a notable element to the proceedings.
The rejection of the sale has broader implications, particularly for the housing crisis and the metro station proposal, which are now effectively halted. Both Premier Minns and the state opposition are expected to address the media later today in response to this unexpected turn of events.
The overall sentiment in the club appears to underscore the importance members place on maintaining traditional racing venues, reflecting a complex intersection between urban development, infrastructure needs, and the heritage of horse racing in the region. As such, the ATC must navigate these dynamics as it considers its future direction.