lol no worries ghlover, actually I lived in Victoria for 9 months last year, so got to know a few people and raced at a few tracks down there.

Mitchell Lodge, yes I've heard of the place, haven't been there but from what I've been told, is an excellent set up run by professional people who knows what they are doing. I think your pup is in good hands! ;-)
How long are their runs? you'd only have to worry if the runs were less than 40metres long and not wide enough, sudden stops and turns will jar their wrists and hocks.

Re the trainer's methods question, I think most trainers would be happy to give you advice but some may not like telling you what they are feeding their dogs exactly, so they may just give you the stock answer lol it depends on the personality you are asking.

What you are doing with your pup eg visiting and taking it for walks, plenty of handling, is exactly the right thing, all owners should be more like you! ;-) Good luck and I hope the pup turns out a winner for you!