An increasing number of female jockeys in Sydney has prompted the Australian Turf Club (ATC) and its partners to announce planned upgrades to rider facilities at several racecourses. The enhancements, aimed at better accommodating the growing female contingent, will begin as early as next month.
At the recent Listed WJ McKell Cup meeting held at Rosehill Gardens, eight female apprentices participated on the feature card, setting a new record for Sydney. One standout performer, Siena Grima, secured three wins during the event, closing the gap on reigning apprentice champion Braith Nock. Experienced riders Alysha Collett and Kacie Adams also competed, underscoring the rapid rise of elite female talent in the region.
The growth in female jockeys has exposed limitations in current venue amenities, which are often insufficient to meet their specific needs. In response, the ATC, Racing NSW, and the NSW Jockeys Association (NSWJA) have collaborated to address these concerns through facility upgrades at Rosehill Gardens, Warwick Farm, and Canterbury Park.
Warwick Farm is scheduled to be the first venue renovated, with improvements starting next month. Planned work includes enhancements to toilet and washroom facilities, alongside the installation of a new shower.
Rosehill Gardens will see more extensive redevelopment, with plans to expand the existing jockeys’ room by increasing floor space by approximately 150 percent. This expansion involves removing certain walls near the current room and will accommodate additional seating, preparation areas, a new spa, and refurbished bathroom facilities. The upgrade is slated to commence following the Hill Stakes event on October 10, with completion targeted before the Five Diamonds Day meeting on November 7.
Canterbury Park will undergo further consultations with the NSWJA to develop a dedicated female jockey space, potentially involving the construction of a bespoke "project home" facility. This space would offer greater room and amenities for female riders between races, representing a novel approach within Australian racing.
Steve McMahon, chief executive of the Australian Turf Club, emphasized the commitment to creating modern, fit-for-purpose facilities that adequately support female jockeys. He highlighted that the upgrades at Warwick Farm and Rosehill Gardens would be substantial, while the potential addition at Canterbury Park could introduce unique, separate accommodations.
With nine metropolitan race meetings remaining in the current 2025-26 season, these facility improvements reflect a broader shift within the sport as female riders continue to make significant inroads on the professional racing circuit.