Racing Queensland is in the unusual position of preparing to seek government relief for race clubs hit by floods and drought.
Queensland race clubs in the north have been hit by record rainfall with Townsville’s meeting on Tuesday called off two days ago.
RQ expects there will be considerable damage throughout the north to racing tracks and course infrastructures while many clubs in the south are starting to run out of water after a record dry January.
The dams at Brisbane tracks are rapidly drying up meaning Eagle Farm and Doomben are likely to start using town water and buying water within a week.
RQ plans to help the clubs apply for assistance from both federal and state governments.
The governing body has also joined other animal-based industries in expressing concerns at the new interactive map, Aussies Farms, launched by an animal rights charity.
The website shows the locations of more than 500 racing facilities across Australia.
Aussie Farms uses social media channels to list the locations and in many instances contact details, of more than 5000 Australian farms, abattoirs and other facilities.
RQ chief operating officer Adam Wallish said RQ was concerned about animal welfare, the health and safety of industry participants and prospective privacy breaches.
“The conduct of Aussie Farms in recent times is cause for concern,” Wallish said.
“Racing Queensland is committed to ensuring the health and wellbeing of our horses and greyhounds, while also allowing our industry participants to operate freely and fairly without the release of private information.
“We also condemn any individual or group which trespasses on private property in the name of enabling this website and encourage anyone affected to contact the police directly.”
