Investigation into Labor’s failed design of The Q released

• The Crisafulli Government has released findings of an investigation into the abandoned Brisbane Cup and design of the Q2 Parklands Track at The Q.  
• The investigation found several challenges in the initial design and construction undertaken by the former Labor Government, which cost $90 million. 
• The Crisafulli Government is delivering for Queensland’s racing industry after a decade of neglect under Labor.  

The Crisafulli Government has welcomed the recommendations from two investigations into The Q, which identified multiple issues in the initial design and construction of the facility by the former Labor Government. 

Following the abandonment of Queensland’s premier greyhound race meeting earlier this year, the Crisafulli Government commissioned two investigations into The Q which was commissioned under the former Labor Government.   

The first examined the circumstances leading up to the cancellation, and the second reviewed the design and construction of the Q2 Parklands Track at The Q. 

The investigations found that consideration of animal welfare was the primary concern of the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission, Racing Queensland and the Queensland Greyhound Racing Club in the postponement and cancellation of the Brisbane Cup.  

They identified key challenges with the design, including drainage inefficiencies, and a lack of consistent track preparation and maintenance protocols at The Q. 

Recommendations from the investigations include upgrading vet room to enhance capabilities, ensuring stewards are present at trials and increasing the number of drainage outlets across all three tracks.  

The Crisafulli Government is committed to ensuring it meets community expectations of being world-leading for animal welfare.  

Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said these outcomes highlight how seriously the Government takes animal welfare in the racing industry. 

“These findings highlight the importance of appropriate training, governance, documented procedures, record keeping, and communication in all aspects of track preparation,” Minister Mander said. 

“All recommendations have been accepted by the Crisafulli Government and the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission, Racing Queensland and the Queensland Greyhound Racing Club will be now be responsible for the implementation.” 

“This $90 million facility was commissioned and built under the former Labor Government, but the Crisafulli Government is determined to make sure all steps are taken to ensure it upholds animal welfare standards.” 

For more information about the investigations please visit https://www.racing.qld.gov.au/reports  

ENDS 

MEDIA CONTACT: Meg Sydes 0448 114 869