Queensland country racing is set for a major boost with the Battle of the Bush series to expand in 2027 following the announcement of a $400,000 prize money injection into the popular regional showcase.
The revamped series will retain its existing 1200-metre sprint format while introducing a brand-new 1500-metre middle-distance series featuring qualifying heats and a final.
Under the new structure, 16 sprint heats will be conducted over 1200 metres, with prize money doubling from $12,500 to $25,000 per heat.
The new middle-distance series will offer $15,000 for each qualifying heat, representing a $5,000 increase on the repurposed races.
Queensland Racing Minister Tim Mander said the expansion fulfilled a key recommendation of the Crisafulli Government’s Racing Review.
“Country racing is part of the social fabric of regional Queensland,” Mander said.
“More than half of the industry’s $2.5 billion in economic contribution directly benefits the regions, and we’re proud to be backing the clubs, volunteers, owners, trainers and jockeys who keep this industry thriving across Queensland.
“The expansion of the Battle of the Bush delivers on a key commitment in *The Next Lap: A plan for the future of Queensland racing* to expand the current Battle of the Bush series and provide greater racing opportunities and incentives for our regional participants.”
The finals will once again be staged at Eagle Farm on Group 1 Tattersall’s Tiara Day as part of the Queensland Racing Carnival.
The 1200-metre final will continue to carry $200,000 in prize money, while the new 1500-metre final will be worth $100,000.
Additional incentives will also be available, with a $30,000 QTIS bonus on offer for any eligible winner and a $10,000 bonus awarded to the club where each finalist qualified.
Racing Queensland Chair Matt McGrath said the expansion marked an exciting new chapter for the series.
“Since its inception in 2018, the Battle of the Bush has been country racing’s showpiece event, and we are excited to see it expand in its 10th year,” McGrath said.
“Both series will be contested from April to June, to ensure that horses can race in heats and finals in the one preparation, whilst still continuing to attract quality fields and provide some added incentive for participants.
“The series already provides a chance for our participants to take their place on a Group 1 raceday, but the addition of a new middle-distance final will add even further excitement to the penultimate day of the Queensland Racing Carnival.”
Conditions for the expanded 2027 Battle of the Bush series will be released in the coming months.
