February 3, 2016
The State Government has clarified its position on changes it plans to introduce to the prize money on offer at regional race meetings over the next four years.
Racing Minister Grace Grace met with representatives from the Country Racing Committee in Brisbane on Tuesday to discuss proposed funding arrangements.
The meeting was held with representatives from each of the eight country racing associations, and included discussion about the Country Racing Support Program – a $21 million, four-year package, designed to ensure that racing in the regions continues.
“The Palaszczuk Government is a great supporter of country racing and I was trackside on Saturday at the Moranbah races to meet with country raceogers and the Member for Dalrymple Shane Knuth,” Ms Grace said.
“All those who love and enjoy country racing in Queensland can count on the support of the Government.”
Ms Grace said the State Government would provide $13 million to offset the amended prize money structure for country racing contained in Racing Queensland’s “Tracking Towards Sustainability” plan.
“The plan provides $4 million for each of the first two years to fully maintain country prize money, and then $3 million in year three and $2 million in year four,” she said.
“We have also made provision for a further $2 million per year, over four years, to assist country race clubs in exploring other revenue options into the future.
“Country racing prize money and race meetings will remain at current levels for the next two years from July 1, 2016.”
Ms Grace said that members of the CRC also met with Racing Queensland’s new Club Liaison team who will oversee country sustainability initiatives.
“The Queensland government is committed to supporting regional clubs and to assist them to improve the long term sustainability of country racing,” she said.
“I look forward to seeing country racing thrive in the future so our next generations can enjoy racing at tracks right around the State.”
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