Lighting the way: look what's new at the trots track | Video

Specialist contractors put up 30 light towers around the new track over the weekend in wretched conditions.

The work comes as the outer fence around the racing surface is also being installed, giving fans of the sport a real glimpse into how the development fits into the landscape off the Vale Road near Mount Panorama.

Getting the lights into position was a job Robert Barlow from Tablelands Builders was glad to see come and go.

He said yesterday that everyone who drives past the complex will have a better idea of where the actual track is situated on the site.

“Getting those lights up also signifies the completion of the earthworks and our main work on building the track, bar the putting down of the final surface with a special combination of materials that’s being brought up from Goulburn,” he said.

The aim, he said, would be an optimum surface for drainage and, of course, speed.

Mr Barlow said yesterday he was surprised just how well the erection of the light towers went despite the nasty weather at the weekend.

“Things went to schedule. It was an interesting process as the light poles were craned onto the cylinder-shaped, precast footings which stick out of the ground about three or four metres. These form the internal part of the structure near the base.”

Mr Barlow said the construction of the outside fence around the track is another milestone for the project, which started last October and is scheduled to end in about three or four months.

“From a contractual point of view, that means we can hand over the track to the harness racing club to get the specialists in to lay the surface,” he said.

“We’re also glad to report the stables are 99 per cent finished and the clubhouse is being finalised with the gyprocking and painting and installation of the kitchen. 

“The car park’s been sealed and the final trim is going on the parade ring.”

Mr Barlow is happy with how the project is being received by the community.

“We’ve had quite a few visits from people involved with the harness racing fraternity and are getting good feedback,” he said. 

The major structure on the site is the stable complex, which Mr Barlow says has 89 internal stalls as well as 24 external stalls, seven wash bays (some inside and some outside), swab bays and amenities for all the people who attend race meetings.