NSPE focusing on the future
Fewer people visiting the track but electronic wager shows potential
There have been changes inside and out at the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition complex during the past year.
“We’re looking at everything we do and trying to determine if there’s a better way to do things,” said Joe Nicholson, who took over as manager last summer. “With 65 acres there’s so much potential here.
“It’s important not to focus on the past or we could lose the opportunities we have.”
Nicholson, who has a background in banking, said one of the things they’re trying to do is reduce the amount of cash they deal with. They recently began offering debit and online payments.
The phone system was changed to save money and ways to save on waste removal are also being sought. One of these ways could come about through a partnership with Dal AC. Engineering students at the university used dried, compressed horse manure to create briquettes to burn in stoves and fireplaces.
“We’re trying to look at lots of options and not leave any stone unturned,” said Nicholson.
While fewer people are visiting the track for live racing, the electronic wager has increased during the past three years and a new off-track betting room is expected to open at Casino Nova Scotia this year. Currently, 15 per cent of the total wager on Truro Raceway events is from the U.S. and 11.8 per cent is from Europe.
The firm Langille & Colburne – More than Events was hired to organize last year’s exhibition and is doing the job again this year.
“Motorsports are very popular so we’re going to increase those at the exhibition,” said Nicholson.
“With Canada 150 this year I want to celebrate the history of agriculture and let people know about the contribution different groups made. It would be nice to have education on farm machinery.”
The grounds are also home to Forever Memories Equestrian Centre, which offers riding lessons and day camps.
“with canada 150 this year i want to celebrate the history of agriculture and let people know about the contribution different groups made.”
Joe Nicholson, NSPE manager