Governing body signs long-term lease

HARNESS Racing South Australia and Gawler Harness Racing Club  are pleased to announce that following the Memorandum of Understanding executed in May 2025, that a Long-term Lease Agreement has now been formally executed aimed at ensuring the long-term viability of one of our state’s beloved sports.

Under the terms of the lease, HRSA will assume operational control of the Gawler racing facility and associated racing amenities, with the continued support and local engagement of the Gawler Harness Racing Club.

This agreement represents an important strategic milestone for the industry, providing HRSA with increased operational flexibility and resilience while ensuring appropriate geographic coverage and continuity of racing infrastructure into the future.

HRSA Chair Dr Carlo D’Ortenzio said the formal signing of the lease represents a significant step forward for harness racing in South Australia.

“The execution of this lease moves our shared vision from concept to reality. It provides certainty for Gawler Harness Racing Club and reinforces HRSA’s commitment to responsible stewardship of industry assets for the benefit of participants, clubs and the broader harness racing community.

“This agreement reflects strong collaboration between all parties and positions the industry well, to continue to grow the sport, both now and into the future. HRSA looks forward to continuing to work closely with Gawler and all stakeholders to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for South Australian harness racing.”

GHRC President Rob Curnow said the signing of the lease provides long-term certainty and a strong platform for the future of the club and the industry.

“The formalisation of this lease is a significant milestone for Gawler Harness Racing Club and for harness racing in South Australia. It delivers the long-term security we were seeking and ensures the ongoing viability and relevance of our club so we can continue to serve our members and the industry for many years to come

“We are proud to be working collaboratively with Harness Racing SA to see the Gawler complex evolve into a genuine industry hub, maximising the existing facilities and creating new opportunities that will benefit participants across the state.”

Next Steps for the SA Harness Racing Industry

“Moving forward HRSA will be developing a holistic, industry-wide Master Plan which focuses on the long-term sustainability of harness racing in South Australia which will address matters including infrastructure utilisation, capital investment priorities, racing and training facilities, and optimal collaboration across venues,” said HRSA Chair Dr Carlo D’Ortenzio.

The South Australian Harness Racing Club remains the State’s principal racing club, and HRSA will continue to work collaboratively with the club throughout 2026 as planning progresses in relation to the future development and master planning of the Globe Derby Park facility.

HRSA will also continue to actively engage with Government to advocate for funding support to improve infrastructure and facilities across the South Australian harness racing network, consistent with the emerging Master Plan and long-term industry needs.

“HRSA sincerely thanks the Gawler Harness Racing Club Committee for its constructive approach, cooperation, and leadership in progressing this agreement for the benefit of the wider industry,” said HRSA Chair Dr Carlo D’Ortenzio.

• HRSA Media