$10 million compensation for Greyhounds.

The Bligh government has set aside $10 million to assist Greyhounds Queensland Limited move out of the soon to be redeveloped Gold Coast Parklands site.

Treasurer and Racing Minister Andrew Fraser said the public land, which had been leased by several organisations including the Gold Coast Greyhound Racing Club for several years, was now required for the much-needed Gold Coast University Hospital.

“The Gold Coast Parklands have always been managed by Parklands Gold Coast Trust and owned by the taxpayer. However for many years different types of organisations on different tenures have operated out of this site.

“It is essential we utilise this land to improve and expand health services for the growing Gold Coast community.

“Today I can confirm that we will provide $10 million to assist Greyhounds Queensland Limited move from its Gold Coast home.

“The Greyhounds presently pay $130,000 a year in a leasehold arrangement. The compensation offered recognises the need to assist the industry and represents a generous settlement.

“The Parklands Gold Coast complex comprises 38 hectares and is valued at $25 million. The portion of land that is being taken for the construction of the Gold Coast University Hospital comprises 24% of the site and is worth $6 million.’’

Mr Fraser said he had met with the Greyhounds Queensland Limited last Friday, July 11, to discuss the compensation and possible alternative sites.

“There has been debate for some time over the future facilities for greyhound racing in the region.

“I know trainers and breeders have been debating the industry’s future in south east Queensland and this announcement will help industry move forward,’’ he said.

Mr Fraser said the focus now needed to be on the long term future of the industry.

“The compensation payment will be conditional on the industry applying the funds to new facilities. Where they might be and in what form is a matter for them.

“This funding provides the means for the industry to marshal its resources and plan for the long term future. Industry leaders need to put forward the best plan for the industry as a whole.

Mr Fraser said the Bligh government had no policy objection to the possibility of Greyhounds Queensland Ltd exiting their part ownership of Albion Park in Brisbane and seeking to combine the industry’s resources at a new site.

“If they wish to, we would be happy to help them enter into a proposal with their co-tenants Queensland Harness Ltd to exit Albion Park,’’ he said.

“While Logan has been mooted a possible alternative site for a ‘’super track’’, this is something for the industry to decide.

“The Bligh government identified the northern site of Parklands Drive, Parkwood as the preferred location for the Gold Coast University Hospital. This land includes state owned land – which is occupied by the Parklands Gold Coast Trust.


Contact: Renee Mickelburgh - 0458 357 539
Chris Taylor – 0419 710 874