RACING Queensland has strengthened its support for Queensland race clubs across all three racing codes, with the establishment of a new team designed to directly assist clubs in developing for the future.

In an initiative developed under the State Government’s Country Racing package, experienced racing administrator David Aldred has moved from the role as Operations Manager - Harness to the new role of Club Liaison and Development Manager.

He will be supported by additional staff members Lucy McIntosh (Club Liaison and Development Officer), who has moved from a Brand Manager role, and Shaun Drury (Facility Maintenance and Development Officer).

The additional Club Development resource is designed to enable Racing Queensland to better assist the state’s 129 race clubs in the development of alternative revenue streams and to improve managing systems.

“David and his team have already started the process of liaising with the state’s 129 clubs and the industry will see the benefit of this resource in the coming weeks and months,” said Racing Queensland Acting Chief Executive Officer Ian Hall.

“The last 12 months have been difficult for Racing Queensland staff who have worn the brunt of a highly volatile environment and additional work created by the live baiting scandal, the Commission of Inquiry and the development of the Tracking Towards Sustainability Plan.

“Pleasingly, during the six months since the start of the new financial year on July 1 we have seen our staff turnover rate reduce significantly from previous high levels to around 8.2 per cent.

“The establishment of the new Club Development team demonstrates to everyone including our staff that Racing Queensland now has its sights set on creating a prosperous future for the industry.

“Although the funding for this additional club support doesn’t formally start until June, we have expedited the process to ensure clubs are receiving the direct benefit of this support.”