Queensland’s Melbourne Cup races back on after Government strikes deal
Related Story: Some of the biggest races of the year called off as betting-tax stoush heats up
The Queensland Government has buckled under pressure from the thoroughbred racing industry, in a bid to prevent more strikes across the state, including on Melbourne Cup day.
Trainers, owners, breeders and jockeys unanimously boycotted Cox Plate Day events this weekend, in a protest against how the State Government planned to distribute revenue from a new betting tax.
Earlier this week Minister Stirling Hinchliffe remained firm in his decision not to provide the industry with any extra funding.
After holding emergency talks with representatives from the industry, the State Government has now approved an additional $26 million in prize money to give the industry a much-needed boost.
"Racing will be on here in Queensland on Melbourne Cup Day," Mr Hinchliffe said.
"I can assure you, we've delivered this outcome — cognisant of what the Government is capable of delivering and what's needed for sustainable support of a competitive racing industry here in Queensland.
"This is being provided out of the Government budget and it will be accounted for in the Mid-Year Fiscal Economic Review at midyear."
"The Government's very pleased we've been able to see this outcome."
Cameron Partington from the Australian Trainers Association had been spearheading the protest and said he was pleased the Government came to the table.
"First of all, [it was good to see] the overwhelming support from the industry together and united to show the Government we were in need of assistance, and then from the Government's point of view to listen."
"Most importantly, we've got a relationship now with the Government we can work on."
An initial $18 million dollars for prize money will be delivered next month, with a further $8 million increase early next year.
Opposition Leader Deb Frecklington said the thoroughbred industry was on "life support".
"We only need to look over the border at New South Wales and Victoria and seeing their racing industry is going from strength to strength," she said.
"It's up to the Government to listen to what the industry is saying, it's up to the industry of course to work with the Government.
"But they've had to call in a mediator — this is unprecedented."
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