Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, says she extremely concerned about the ramifications for Country Racing, with the announcement by the Labor Government to abolish all boards associated by the racing industry, including the Qld Thoroughbred Racing Board and the Qld Harness Racing Board.
Mrs Frecklington says while she fully appreciates serious action needed to be taken against the Qld Racing Greyhound Board following the terrible practices exposed recently, she is at a loss to why the progressive and successful Thoroughbred and Harness boards also had to go.
“I am very worried about the implications for Country Racing and what may happen to the many achievements the industry has gained over the past three years,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“During the LNP term I was really proud to help encourage a revival of Country Racing, with new races, improved prize money and excellent management of the galloping and harness racing sector. This all led to great outcomes for local communities, like Kilcoy and Esk who need the social and economic boost that comes with Country Racing events.
“This instilled confidence for everyone involved, the clubs, the jockeys, the trainers.
“However, Labor’s decision is creating great uncertainty and many are concerned about what may happen to this industry, which literally had just recovered from the previous Labor Government’s inaction and disinterest in country racing,” Deb said.
Mr Con Searle, President of the Kilcoy Race Club says the decision to scrap the Thoroughbred and Racing Boards will leave the industry in limbo.
“The sacking of these two Boards is a disgrace. The Thoroughbred Board was the most progressive since the 1960’s and brought confidence back to both metropolitan and country racing,” Mr Searle said.
“The previous Labor government crucified Country Racing, and I hope protections are given to the achievements gained over the past three years under the LNP.
“I completely understand the need to sack the Greyhound Racing Board, but there was no need to create so much upheaval to the other Boards who were doing an excellent job,” he said.
Photo: Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, with Con Searle of the Kilcoy Race Club. Both are extremely concerned about the impact of the recent sacking of all Queensland racing boards and the potential impact on Country Racing.
