Grandstand, former totalisator building and main entrance gates, Cluden Racecourse

The grandstand, totalisator building and the entrance gates at Cluden Racecourse represent the first sporting institution in Townsville. Originally situated within walking distance of the Cluden railway station, the racecourse was established in 1883. The site initially included a grandstand, steward and press stand, booths and a totalisator. Most of these facilities were destroyed by Cyclone Sigma in January 1896. Local architect W. Howard Tunbridge designed a new set of buildings for the course, as the annual Townsville Turf Club meeting was scheduled for 14 July 1896. Construction by local contractor Mr Reid, saw the complex completed, although unpainted, in time for the big race meeting. The entrance gates were built at this time. The totaliser was built at the rear of the grandstand, which is used today as offices. The grandstand has endured cyclone damage from Leonta in 1903 and Althea in 1971, and each time has been repaired. Despite being used as a camp for the Australian Army during WWII, the race meetings continued every Saturday, with troops vacating the site to allow Australia’s ‘sport of kings’ to continue. In 1983, a substantial upgrade of facilities was carried out by architects Martin Dillon and Associates, completed in 1984.