Racing Queensland hopes changes to next season’s race dates calendar will provide a major boost to betting turnover.
The major changes to the program include the reintroduction of Tuesday TAB meetings and day-night 12-race meetings at the Sunshine Coast on Wednesdays and Fridays.
The state’s premier track, Eagle Farm, will be back in action after being closed for nearly two years for renovations.
In other changes TAB meetings will increase from 430 to 443 with some country meetings upgraded.
A total of 19 meetings will be upgraded from Sky 2 to Sky 1 coverage while non-TAB standard race meeting will remain at 277.
RQ Racing Operations Manager Ross Gove said he was confident the changes would have a positive impact on Queensland racing.
“Although the emphasis has been placed on driving wagering, the need to provide greater returns to stakeholders through increased racing opportunities remains paramount,” Gove said.
“Through the consultation process we have been able to accommodate the special needs of clubs and at the same time maintain a balance in the racing program that allows horses to compete in vital lead up races particularly around feature events.”
