We know….or, better put, we assume Qld Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk will one day open up her borders to the rest of the world.
Presumably, hopefully, prayerfully, before the massive Magic Millions Yearling sale in early January.
And when she does, work can start on the promised $31.5million her government has just agreed to revitalise and improve the Gold Coast racetrack and its facilities.
This includes lights for night time racing.
With Moonee Valley and Canterbury Park being runaway success stories racing at night, Qld needed to catch up and this massive injection of funds will do just that.
“The Gold Coast is one of Queensland’s most magnificent tourism drawcards and the turf club is already home to the internationally renowned Magic Millions Carnival, including the January yearling sale and its raceday,” Racing Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said.
“Now it needs a turf club to match, which is exactly what a re-elected Palaszczuk Government will be able to deliver.”
Recognising the importance of the Gold Coast to the Qld tourism portfolio, it was announced today that the money for the redevelopment would be so it can reflect the Gold Coast to the world, and would be modelled on the successful Happy Valley in Hong Kong racing system.
A biased and enthusiastic racing Queensland Chairman, Steve Wilson said, ““We want the Gold Coast to be our very own Happy Valley – showcasing the city to the world by unlocking new and exciting timeslots – whilst establishing itself as the most impressive night racing venue in Australia.
“This will give visitors and locals at Australia’s favourite holiday destination the chance to have a night out whilst loving the thrill of our thoroughbred superstars sprinting down the upgraded track.
“Just as importantly, the all-weather synthetic track will provide the Gold Coast with a much-needed wet-weather racing option, which will increase wagering returns through greater surety – and flexibility – in race scheduling.”