MANSFIELD'S race club got a mention in state parliament last week, when state Liberal member for Eildon Cindy McLeish called on the government to ensure female jockey changerooms across the electorate receive upgrades.

She said that female jockey participation numbers at picnic race clubs are increasing, making it necessary to upgrade female changeroom facilities to accommodate the growing numbers.

Ms McLeish said racing is an important feature across the electorate with picnic clubs in five towns, including Mansfield.

"I am keen to see these clubs get a bit more attention," Ms McLeish said.

Female jockey numbers at picnic racing clubs now make up a third of jockeys and at some club meetings, are on par with male numbers.

Ms McLeish sought feedback from the local picnic clubs about the current condition of female changerooms and found that clubs typically describe their female changerooms as 'adequate'.

But Ms McLeish said many of the changerooms across picnic clubs in Mansfield, Yea, Healesville and Merton are cramped or are not purpose–built facilities.

"In some instances, plumbing is dodgy, and the bathroom facilities need upgrading along with more storage and new flooring installed," she said.

"Female changerooms need to be improved to ensure the jockeys have comfortable and safe facilities with showers and toilets.

"Committees are doing the best with what they have, but an upgrade would be most welcome by clubs and jockeys."