Brisbane Racing Carnival reaches high point

Brisbane racing fans have a final chance to take part in the glitz and glamour of the Brisbane Racing Carnival this year, at Saturday’s Stradbroke Handicap at Eagle Farm.

Racing Minister Steve Dickson said the carnival had delivered on the Government’s election promises, drawing high quality race fields and strong crowds, with 50,000 people expected over the course of the five race meets, and a crowd of 20,000 expected for the Stradbroke Handicap alone.

“Queensland is the focus of the Australian racing industry during the Brisbane Racing Carnival, which has developed into a major event on the sporting calendar, growing tourism and the local economy as promised at the election,” Mr Dickson said.

“The five meeting carnival showcases thoroughbred racing at its highest standard, with seven Group 1 races and almost $9 million in prize money.

“In 2013 the carnival contributed more than $6 million to the Queensland economy, providing support to our tourism industry and putting Brisbane on the map.”

The carnival culminates this weekend with the $1.36 million Stradbroke Handicap over 1400 metres, as well as the $500,000 Queensland Derby and $500,000 Tatts Group J J Atkins race.

Member for Clayfield Tim Nicholls said the event was a boon for the local economy, as well as a great sporting and social event.

“The running of the Stradbroke is always a red letter day for Eagle Farm – Queensland’s premier racing venue – for the Brisbane Racing Club, and for thoroughbred racing generally,” Mr Nicholls said.

“The Queensland Government is committed to a strong plan for a brighter future for the racing industry, supporting the associated tourism opportunities, as part of our four pillar economy."

BRC Chairman Neville Bell said the Channel Seven Brisbane Racing Carnival had seen strong representation of owners, trainers, jockeys and horses from interstate and also New Zealand for years.

“We have a structure and a model in place for the carnival that is working well. Sponsorship has again been strong, with all the races of the five major meetings of the carnival sponsored,” Mr Bell said.

“We’ve also had greater collaboration with industry bodies and associated sectors, such as Racing Queensland, Brisbane Marketing and Tourism and Events Queensland which has seen a concerted marketing effort interstate and in New Zealand.

[ENDS] 6 June 2014

Media contact: Michelle Buckworth 0418 433 647