Winx Stand Royal Randwick
Named after the legendary mare who captivated the racing world, the Winx Stand is a multi-purpose facility including a leading-edge, two-floor Conference and Exhibition Centre. The facility provides increased weather protection and significantly enhance amenity for general admission patrons on race days.
The Winx Stand is part of the Royal Randwick Racecourse Precinct, located on the former Leger Lawn. The development comprises a two-storey multi-purpose facility with approximately 5,043 square metres of gross floor area (GFA), including lifts and escalators, level one outdoor terrace and balcony space, and food and beverage facilities. Connected to the QEII Grandstand by a link bridge, the Stand design allows for an internal capacity of up to 7,500 patrons—anticipated to become a popular hub for large race events post-COVID.
As a major large-scale function centre for Sydney, the Winx Stand boasts a multitude of flexible light-filled spaces that provide seamless indoor and outdoor flow ideal for conferences, galas and parties. The open-air rooftop space captures breathtaking views toward the Eastern beaches, perfect for conference breakouts or a pre-dinner cocktail party.
Our team integrated the hydrants and hose reels into the detailed design. The fire hydrant, fire hose reel and fire sprinkler services, and domestic cold water services connected to the existing internal services were designed not to impact the existing Sydney Water infrastructure.
Sparks+Partners worked with builder Taylor and plumbers Foran Industries to deliver the hydraulic design on the Winx Stand. Due to the development exceeding 500 m2 under AS2419.1 (fire hydrants) and AS2441 (fire hose reels), fire safety equipment is required within the stand. This unique facility provides patrons with the ultimate race day experience.
Overall, the Winx Stand development is summarised as:
- Construction of a two-storey multi-purpose facility with an approximate total 5,043sqm GFA
- Level 1 outdoor terrace and balcony space.
- Maximum internal capacity for up to 7,500 patrons in Race Day mode.
- Food and beverage facilities.
- New Link bridge connecting to the QEII Grandstand.
- Associated landscaping and planting.
On the 13 July 2020, the Department of Planning, Infrastructure and Environment approved the final plans for the Winx Stand.
