The system was installed through $81,330 in funding from the coalition government's Drought Communities Program, bringing the Gunnedah's total received funding from the program up to $944,651.

Read also:

Parkes MP Mark Coulton said he was very pleased with the "fantastic improvements" at the racecourse and other areas of the shire.

"Gunnedah Shire Council has many exciting projects underway as a result of this funding, and it's wonderful to see the enormous difference these grants are making to the community," Mr Coulton said.

"These projects are already lifting community morale, and providing a boost to the local economy."

Gunnedah mayor Jamie Chaffey was also pleased with the upgrades.

"Thanks to the recent installation of an automated sprinkler system, the racecourse is looking the best it has in many years," Cr Chaffey said.

"The Gunnedah shire has seen many benefits as a result of funding awarded through the [Drought Communities Program] - with the Gunnedah community and jockey club being a huge benefactor."

Subscribe to receive all of your local news, for only $2 per week.