Roma races rejuvenate regional Queensland

One of the most highly anticipated country racing events of the year will kick off in south-west Queensland tomorrow, as the annual Roma races get underway.

Racing Minister Steve Dickson said he’d be among the expected throng of more than 8000 flocking to Bassett Park race course for the cup meeting, set to inject $2 million into the local economy.

“The Newman Government is rebuilding the Queensland racing industry, which was brought to its knees by the former Labor government, and our rejuvenation of country racing is a vital part of that promise,” Mr Dickson said.

“The Roma Turf Club and the local racing community benefit significantly from this meeting, but importantly too, so does the local business community and the town of Roma, which will be full to capacity with visitors making the most of their stay.”

Mr Dickson said racegoers would be better placed to follow the on-track action on Saturday with the unveiling of a new mobile LED super screen, one of two provided through the Racing Industry Capital Development Scheme.

“These new mobile screens will be available for clubs to use free of charge for their major race meetings to help bring the action from the track to patrons,” he said.

“Under Labor, the number of country race meetings almost halved over the last decade.

“The Newman Government understands that country race clubs are the lifeblood of their local communities, which is why we are providing $4 million over four years to enable 20 additional regional meetings a year as well as increased prize money.”

Mr Dickson said the Roma Cup has been renamed the XXXX Gold Desiree Gill Memorial Cup, paying tribute to the memory of Desiree Gill who tragically passed away this week from injuries sustained in a race fall.

 

“Desiree was widely admired and loved for her passion for the racing industry and she will be sorely missed,” Mr Dickson said.

“In addition to race clubs around Australia honouring Desiree this weekend, Racing Queensland (RQ) in conjunction with the National Jockeys Trust has also established amemorial fund in her honour.”

Roma Turf Club president Ranald Ferrier said the Roma races had established itself in recent years as Queensland’s premier country race meeting.  

“It’s the biggest on the country racing calendar, and the one offering the most prize money,” Mr Ferrier said.  

“We’ll have people here from as far afield as Melbourne and Sydney, as well as Townsville,Cairns and other parts of central and south east Queensland.

“The Roma meeting creates a tremendous atmosphere in the town, stores and businesses all join in by decorating their shop windows, and there are flags and fairy lights in the main street.”

Gates at Bassett Park open at 11am, with the first race at 1.15pm.

Donations to The Desiree Gill fund can be made using BSB: 084 004, account number: 39 452 7218.

[ENDS] 15 November 2013           

Media contact: Anna Hilton 0408 191 192