HUNTER clubs have pulled ahead in the race for state cash, with racecourses in Scone and Muswellbrook major winners from a pool of more than $60 million.
Muswellbrook Race Club has received a $4.2 million head start on a major expansion, with Scone Race Club to receive almost $20 million.
The Upper Hunter spend will go towards a new poly track and increased stabling, the Scone club said.
In Muswellbrook the state government has pledged $4.2 million for the club's multi-purpose function centre expansion project, which the club said will make it one of the most modern country racing clubs.
Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation Kevin Anderson announced the project as part of a $67 million investment in thoroughbred racing infrastructure in the next three years.
At Muswellbrook it will mean expanded changing rooms for jockeys, shifting the winning post and broadcat tower, doubling the capacity of its function space and a new bar and bistro.
Muswellbrook Race Club chief executive Duane Dowell said the project "ticks a lot of boxes".
"It benefits race day participants and patrons who will now experience first class facilities and also provides a great asset to the local community to utilise and be proud of"," he said.
Chairman John Sunderland said Racing NSW had helped win the funding,
Construction is expected to start next year.
