It’s been a long time coming. Almost two years in fact.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
And now the Parkes Racecourse Grandstand has been repaired, renovated and officially reopened.
It was October 2016 when a freak storm tore across Parkes and ripped the roof off the iconic 88-year-old structure.
Parkes Jockey Club President Mark Ross said it started out as a 130 day build turned
“It took significantly longer but that’s through the process of insurance and architects and backwards and forwards, delays and things like that,” he said.
Works on the grandstand include a new roof, flooring, seats and lighting.
Underneath the kitchen has been revamped into a commercial grade kitchen including new stove, fridge, and dishwasher.
In the bar area new lights and fans have been installed, along with a new bar, drink fridge and television.
All the original exterior doors and windows have been refitted.
“The finished product looks spectacular when you walk in the gate,” Mark said.
“Tim McCabe has done a fantastic job.”
Parkes Jockey Club officially reopened the grandstand at a private function last month.
Club secretary Gordon Pritchard was honoured for his years of hard work and dedication and presented with a plaque naming the new building the Pritchard Pavilion.
“Without Gordon we wouldn’t have a Parkes racing club,” Mark said.
“He has been the mainstay of this club, he is a great administrator.”