Turf Manager

About Perth Racing

Perth Racing (the trading name of the Western Australian Turf Club) is the premier thoroughbred racing club in WA, operating both Ascot and Belmont Park racecourses. As a multi-faceted racing, entertainment and event business, we stage up to 100 race meetings per year, including the high-profile Melbourne Cup Day at Ascot, Perth Cup, The Quokka and The Pinnacles series.

The role

Perth Racing is seeking a dynamic and driven individual to become an integral part of the Racecourse Team as Turf Manager at Ascot Racecourse.

The organisation has a proud history as the only metropolitan thoroughbred racing club in Western Australia. It hosts iconic racing events including The Pinnacles, the world's only thoroughbred racing festival featuring a Group 1 race on three consecutive Saturdays, all run on the same racetrack. The introduction of The Quokka, a $5M slot race, alongside our core product of racing, we are also a multipurpose entertainment and hospitality venue with the delivery of a variety of non-race day sporting, leisure and corporate events.

This hands-on position will manage and coordinate turf operations to the highest standards of workmanship, presentation, service and safe work practices in association with RWWA guidelines and OHS legislation.

Reporting to the Racecourse Manager, this role plays an integral part in the planning and delivery of operations to provide a world class racing and training track and provide a high level of service to Perth Racing stakeholders.

The role has the following key areas of focus:

1. Undertake or supervise all turf related activity, including spraying, mowing, turf replacement, renovations and track repairs.
2. Manage and maintain the grounds and turf facilities, including turf surfaces, irrigation systems, and equipment.
3. Assist in the development and implementation of a comprehensive turf management plan, including regular maintenance schedules, pest and weed control, and fertilisation programs.
4. Monitor and assess the health and condition of the turf, ensuring the appropriate measures are taken to maintain the course proper to the highest standard.
5. Oversee and mentor team of turf maintenance staff, ensuring proper training, scheduling, and performance evaluation.
6. Supervision of contractors and update the Monday task management system.
7. Develop and maintain positive relationships with industry stakeholders.
8. Ensure compliance is met for the Club's statutory obligations in respect of racecourse operations including RWWA, local Government and Occupational Safety and Health.
9. Be proactive in developing and promoting sound safety practices in association with OSH legislation and the Club's safety culture and values.

Skills and experience

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented individual with the following skills and experience:

Essential

• Previous experience in a similar role
• Qualification in Turf Management or Horticulture (or equivalent training)
• Experience in dealing with local organisations and industry bodies
• Experience in planning and implementation of operating policies and procedures
• Current C class driver's licence
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills with a personable, professional and adaptable approach to working relationships
• Experience developing and creating relationships with key racecourse stakeholders

Perth Racing Offering

A competitive salary will be on offer to the right candidate based on skills and experience.

Why join Perth Racing?

Perth Racing is a vibrant and highly supportive organisation with a proud history and an exciting future. We offer a diverse working environment, an inclusive culture and significant opportunity for professional growth and development.

We offer free on-site car parking, complimentary admission tickets for Race Day Events and other employee discounts.  Our Employee Recognition Program celebrates individual and team success.  Perth Racing also supports flexible working arrangements.

The perks of Perth Racing include:

• PPE will be provided
• Free entry tickets for carnival
• Perth Racing Social Club
• Discounted hospitality
• Daytime hours
• Free onsite parking
• Close proximity to public transport
• Training provided

Quick apply

Applications should be addressed to the Racecourse Manager – Ascot, please include a CV and cover letter outlining why you feel you'd be the ideal candidate for this role.

If you are shortlisted, you will be contacted by telephone by our People & Culture team. We would like to thank all other applicants for their interest in Perth Racing.

Only candidates with current and valid working rights for Australia will be considered. Direct applications only - at this time we will not be considering candidates from recruitment agencies.

If you have any queries, please contact Matthew Cork on