Implementation Plan update

Late last year, Racing Queensland commenced work on developing an Implementation Plan of The Next Lap: a plan for the future of Queensland racing.

Mary Collier has led the development of this Plan, in consultation with the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission and the Department of Sport and Racing and Olympic and Paralympic Games. Ms Collier has now submitted a draft plan which contemplates:

• Considered sequencing for infrastructure delivery;
• Legislative change over the next 9-12 months; and
• Pngoing consultation with industry.

Work has already commenced on delivering the sweeping reforms outlined in The Next Lap.

A modernised RQ Board has been appointed to oversee the implementation, which includes broader representation across the industry.

Earlier this year, Racing Minister Tim Mander announced an initial $25 million investment from the Racing Infrastructure Fund for the first phase of a $100 million redevelopment of the John Power Stand at Eagle Farm. 

RQ is currently finalising a partnership with the Brisbane Racing Club in support of its commercial ventures, consistent with ensuring the government is repaid the significant investment in a full and timely manner. 
 
The process to divest assets at Norwell and Bowen Hills has commenced, and work is also underway to deliver a high-quality grass to sand conversion at Bundaberg Greyhounds. 
 
Work has also commenced on developing the annual feature race calendar, benchmarking the Queensland Off-The-Track program and developing a coordinated approach to night racing. 
 
RQ is advocating for Queensland to receive a greater share of voice within Racing Australia, and Minister Mander recently met with Racing Ministers from New South Wales, Victoria, Northern Territory and Western Australia to commence these discussions.

Work already completed includes a review and update to RQ’s Whistleblower Policy, updates to greyhound race day gaps and a jurisdictional analysis of wagering integrity systems. 
 
 Further updates will be provided as this wide-ranging program of work progresses.