Queensland first: QRIC Stewards orchestrate same-day race meeting move
15 September, 2022
Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) stewards have orchestrated a massive relocation of a race meeting from Cloncurry to Mt Isa in a single day.
On the morning of Saturday, 10 September, the QRIC stewards’ inspection found that the Cloncurry and District Race Club track was unsuitable for racing. Consultation with two senior jockeys and the club late morning led to the decision that the surface could not be remediated to an acceptable level.
Rather than calling off the meeting, stewards in collaboration with Racing Queensland moved the meeting to Mt Isa, 120km away.
In a matter of hours, stewards worked with the Mt Isa Race Club to arrange for race day operations personnel including medics, vets and swabbers to be ready to race at the Mt Isa Race Club. Participants, horses and race day teams travelled more than an hour to Mt Isa, where the meeting began at 2:30pm, with 38 horses participating across five races.
Queensland Racing Integrity Commissioner Shane Gillard said the operation demonstrates the great teamwork of those in the racing industry.
“We’ve asked around, and industry stalwarts say a feat like this has never before been successfully pulled off in Queensland,” Mr Gillard said.
“Moving a race meeting on the same day, in a regional area, is a rare and impressive logistical effort.
“Thanks to the determination of QRIC stewards and the cooperation and support of Racing Queensland and racing participants at the event, the meeting proceeded despite significant challenges.
“This is a great example of how passionate and enthusiastic QRIC stewards are. They do a tough job, and I’m proud of their commitment to holding safe and successful race meetings.”
ENDS.
Media contact Nicole Rowles
E nicole.rowles@qric.qld.gov.au
P 0467 955 412