Queensland harness participants have thrown their support behind Racing Queensland’s drought relief effort, with drivers and trainers offering to donate a portion or all of their driving fees at Saturday night’s Albion Park meeting.
Recently crowned metropolitan premier driver Pete McMullen has led the charge, contacting Racing Queensland last week to get the initiative started.
It comes as Queensland clubs from across the three codes get behind the #BetOnBirdsville campaign, with Racing Queensland to donate 50% of wagering revenue raised on the Birdsville Carnival (Friday and Saturday) to the QCWA Drought Appeal.
Racing Queensland Harness Development and Strategy manager David Brick said it was another example of the generosity that exists within the entire racing industry.
“Forms to donate part or all of drivers’ fees or training percentages will be on offer at the Albion Park Raceday office on Saturday,” Mr Brick said.
“I would encourage all participants to give what they can to assist people who are doing it tough in regional areas.”
A number of industry participants have thrown their support behind the drought appeal in recent weeks.
Thoroughbred trainer Desleigh Forster raised close to $40,000 at a charity fund raising event last weekend, while South Australian trainer Michael Hickmott auctioned 5% share in his Birdsville Cup runner Unbreakable. The auction facilitated by Magic Millions raised $2000 for the QCWA appeal.