The battle for Australians’ eyeballs, money, participation and interest has never been more intense.

Modern sports lovers have a smorgasbord of options to choose from, and so much more power when it comes to how they spend their money and direct their attention. 

Bathurst may be recognised as one of the major regional venues when it comes to harness racing in this state, but the Bathurst club must know it can’t take anything for granted.

Which is why the development of a new $7.5 million harness racing complex near the Vale Road in the Mount Panorama precinct is such an interesting move.

Harness Racing NSW is so confident the venture will be a success that it has allocated 25 per cent of its funds to build the facility, which is the first stage of its longer term strategic plan.

Harness Racing NSW knows that the sport needs to grow in regional areas, but with Bathurst holding its own during an era in which numbers have declined by 40 per cent, it believes the culmination of this venture will be the start of a fightback for the sport. 

Indeed, Harness Racing NSW chiefs have said the Bathurst club is a shining light for them.

As reported today, earthworks are now about 80 per cent complete at the complex and progress is being made on the clubhouse and stable complex.

Weather permitting, it is hoped to have the development completed by the end of August.

No matter the timeline, the complex is good news for Bathurst.

It cements the sport’s future in the region, and has brought jobs and a major development to the district.

And that’s good for all of us.