KELLY RIGHT FIT, GILLARD JUST ANOTHER LABOR JOB FOR THE BOYS 

WHEN it comes to Integrity, Kim Kelly has shown in a short time with QRIC that he has more in his ‘little toe’ than his predecessor Shane Gillard had in his ‘entire body’.

Kelly has international experience as a high profile steward. Gillard had none – he was a boofhead when it came to dealing with the racing media.

When he first arrived, LGHR – as it had done successfully with two previous QRIC Commissioners – asked a legitimate question whether trainers or jockeys were spoken to prior to a race when the odds of their horse had drifted alarmingly.

Gillard told us to take a hike that it was none of our business. We were told by his media ‘minders’ that he only wanted to deal with the mainstream racing media. There was a reason for that. One leading racing scribe became his ‘love child’ and made a fool of himself, once again, spin-doctoring the every move of the man the racing industry christened ‘Dr Dillard’.

That was until Gillard finally shot himself in the foot after doing immense damage to the image and financial stature of QRIC. Once it was clear he was going his ‘fair weather’ friend in the media threw him under the bus. There’s a message in that for those at the BRC who are happy to go into battle with this bloke – keep one eye over your shoulder!

But back to Kim Kelly, now the highly popular Deputy Commissioner of QRIC, who was caught in the crossfire of LGHR’s criticism of new rules to close selective inquiries if they deemed those involved had legitimate reasons for that to happen.

Had it been Gillard we would have been banned for life. But Kelly – to his credit – accepted our invitation to respond, rather than walk away from just another ‘keyboard warrior’ as some critics are happy to describe us.

QRIC DEPUTY COMMISSIONER KIM KELLY’S RESPONSE

‘THANK you for the opportunity to reply regarding the matter raised on Wednesday, 11 June 2024 regarding open Stewards inquiries.

I have not been able to attend to the matter until now given that the inquiry in question was on-going.

The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (‘QRIC’) is committed to ensuring transparency throughout its decision-making processes, including Stewards' inquiries, whilst also acting compatibly with information privacy and Queensland human rights legislation.

I can advise that those directed to attend a Stewards’ inquiry are entitled to make application requesting a closed inquiry. Each application is assessed on its merits, balancing the need for transparency and public interest provisions with the non-disclosure grounds relied upon in support of such application (which are generally tied to protecting sensitive or confidential information).

QRIC fully acknowledges and respects the fundamental importance of transparency in maintaining public confidence in the integrity of the racing industry. However, in this specific circumstance, applications were submitted to the Stewards panel seeking a closed inquiry and it was determined by the panel that the interests of justice and procedural fairness were best served by holding a closed inquiry to preserve confidentiality and to ensure full and frank disclosure of sensitive information without fear of public misuse. The applications were considered by the panel on their merits, not with any intention to avoid scrutiny, and but for those applications I anticipate the media would have been permitted to be present during the stewards’ inquiry.

The panel formed the view that the ultimate decision to hold the stewards’ inquiry in camera was temporary and case-specific, but which ultimately served the broader goals of integrity, fairness, and thorough fact-finding in respect of the specific referenced matter.

That said, I can confirm that QRIC’S position on the subject going forward is that Stewards’ inquiries will, whenever possible, be conducted in an open and transparent manner.

I hope this is of some assistance to you and your readers.’

SEE Mr Gillard – in case you are watching from under some rock hopefully a long way from any involvement in racing – answering any form of criticism is as simple as that.

 

FINDINGS OF INDEPENDENT REVIEW TO BE MADE PUBLIC AS RACING MINISTER ACCUSES LABOR OF SPENDING TOO MUCH TIME IN  MARQUEE

RACING Minister Tim Mander has told State Parliament that the findings of the Independent Review currently underway into the Three Codes will be made public.

Mander had a pot-shot at the close association between his predecessor Grace Grace and the Brisbane Racing Club declaring: ‘Labor spent too much time in the marquee and not enough time keeping the industry on track’.

‘It is true that those opposite had their own reactive Review last year. However, I can only assume that the outcome highlighted their own gross mismanagement of the industry, as they were too ashamed to release it. Our review will be critical to ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of the Queensland racing industry, and the findings will be made public.

‘From the Gold Coast to Birdsville, Brisbane to Cooktown and everywhere in between, racing runs through the reins—the veins as well—of Queenslanders. I have seen this first hand when visiting racetracks at Goondiwindi, Longreach, Bundaberg, Townsville, Cairns, Ipswich, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Redcliffe and of course Brisbane. This is why we must get this Review right—and we will.

Speaking about the upcoming Budget, the first of the new LNP Government, Minister Mander, said it would be designed to deliver for Queensland. ‘It is the fresh start we promised. Right now, the Crisafulli Government is delivering a comprehensive Review of the Queensland racing industry. All I have seen since taking on this portfolio is broken promises and budget blowouts left behind by those opposite.

‘Under Labor’s watch, the Bundaberg greyhound industry was left on life support by a failed promise to build a new sand track; the Toowoomba Turf Club lights were left on their last legs, leaving participants in danger; the harness industry was promised a new home but 1200 days of Olympic venue chaos saw the project come to a screeching halt; millions have been spent on country racetracks that have barely been raced on in years; the Racing Integrity Commission was left unfunded—and the list goes on. Labor spent too much time in the marquee and not enough time keeping the industry on track.’

The Minister described Queensland racing ‘as a diverse and decentralised industry’. ‘Whether it is Saturday’s Stradbroke at Eagle Farm, where we will be cheering on the five Queensland horses; or last weekend’s iconic Mount Isa Cup; or the looming Inter Dominion, which will be held in Brisbane for the next three years; or greyhounds flying around The Q in (the) Origin Greyhound Series—go the Maroons!—racing is part of the fabric of Queensland.

‘Just last week, I announced the latest data, demonstrating racing’s $2.5 billion annual contribution to the Queensland economy. More than half of the $2.5 billion is realised in regional economies. Almost 600,000 Queenslanders visited the races in rural or regional Queensland alone last year. All three codes are having an impact in communities across the State. Racing helps generate $75 million for the Townsville region, $58 million for the Cairns region, $81 million for Central Queensland, $40 million for Mackay and $35 million for the Outback. Racing supports our regions, and our regions back racing.’

Tim Mander reported that Review Chair Matt McGrath, who headed up one of Australia’s largest race clubs, continued to travel across the State and has been welcomed with open arms by the industry, ‘because this industry is determined to ensure their sport is set up to prosper in the years ahead. The racing industry deserves a Government that works collaboratively to ensure its success. The Crisafulli Government will get this industry on the right track.’

 

NO MENTION OF FUNDING FOR NEW STAND WHICH MURDOCH MEDIA REPORT FORGOT TO HIGHLIGHT WAS FOR ‘MEMBERS ONLY’ 

IT’S fraught with danger attempting to read between the lines when any Minister makes a statement to the House but there was no mention of funding for a new grandstand at Eagle Farm.

This is despite the Brisbane Racing Club, with the help of their ‘mates’ in the mainstream media, putting a blowtorch to the Government on the eve of their biggest race meeting of the year.

Not surprisingly it was ‘Big Ben’ Dorries who stepped up to the plate quoting a former Courier-Mail colleague (now BRC CEO) Karl deKroo blasting a long-term “chronic underfunding of metropolitan thoroughbred racing in Brisbane”.

DeKroo didn’t mind throwing former Racing Minister Grace Grace under the bus despite her perceived closeness to the BRC which continues to this day when he told Dorries:  “Unfortunately, this is a problem that has been inherited by the new Government, but they understand what’s at stake.

Mischeviously or not, the politically motivated story by ‘Big Ben’ failed to highlight that the John Power Grandstand the BRC wants the new Government to spends who knows how many million on is for the ‘exclusive use of Members’ who number a few thousand.

The public are denied entry to this stand but since that issue has been highlighted by the racing public who want to see the club meet the cost themselves it has emerged that an upgrade to the paddock stand is part of the overall project.

Dorries reported:

It is understood the BRC need to spend almost $200,000 in maintenance to ensure the safe use of the John Power Stand for this Stradbroke season. It has budgeted a further $600,000 to nurse the stand through to when it is condemned.

It is understood the BRC is attempting to work on a staged funding plan with Government of $150mn to $160mn over three to four years.

That would include refurbishment of the existing Paddock Stand and Members Stand together with the addition of temporary infrastructure to carry the club through an initial period after the John Power Stand closure.

The ultimate aim is a replacement stand being delivered by 2029-2030 (but no mention of cost there).

DeKroo told Dorries there was ‘no clear path forward’ for operating the State’s premier track for spectators and owners beyond next year’s Stradbroke because the major spectator facility, the John Power Stand, will be closed in August next year.

(Does that mean they get more Members at the track than the paying punting public? Certainly crowds have been down this Carnival according to those who have attended. It will be interesting to see how many turn out for Stradbroke Day which once attracted 20,000).

DeKroo admitted: “We’ve been encouraged by positive discussions with Racing Minister Tim Mander and the Queensland Government but was quick to add: ‘This isn’t just about a grandstand in Brisbane, it’s about investing in infrastructure befitting of the headquarters of racing in the state. It is also an investment in a racetrack that ultimately keeps the entire Queensland racing industry running.’ (Wow, that’s drawing a long bow, then again unlike LGHR Karl has a Degree in Corporate Bookmaking).

 

HOW DOES A LEADING RACING SCRIBE GET UPGRADED FROM ‘PORK CHOP TO SEAFOOD SMORGASBOARD’  – JUST ASK BIG BEN?  

‘BIG BEN’ Dorries almost assured he will be upgraded from ‘pork chop to seafood smorgasboard’ on his regular visits to the Directors’ Room, once again refusing to ask the BRC about the ‘elephant in the room’ – the requirement of the Board to release minutes of its last contentious AGM to Member Wally Gleeson whose son Simon resigned from the Board in controversial circumstances.

This is an issue that Minister Mander needs to address ASAP. Any announcement of Government funding for a major club that many believe are dodging their responsibilities on transparency will see Tim caught in the crossfire.

While deKroo took a swipe at ‘significant investment in other racing projects in the regions, including a new $100mn greyhound facility at Purga near Ipswich and major investment on the Gold Coast thoroughbred track including lights’ he failed to mention the millions wasted getting the new Eagle Farm track right then more money thrown at the BRC to overcome safety concerns for horses and riders baulking at a nearby building project.

“Pleasingly there is a growing recognition that racing in Queensland is only as strong as its metropolitan club. If these issues aren’t addressed, the consequences will be felt across the entire state. Eagle Farm and Doomben are the economic engine room of Queensland racing,’ deKroo said.

“They are the primary drivers of an industry which a recent Racing Queensland report says delivers more than $2.5bn in economic benefit to the state. If we lose momentum here, we put that at jeopardy and lose the capacity to fund prizemoney and support country and regional clubs.”

With all due respect Karl your journalistic background obviously taught you the skills of elasticising a ‘good story’. Many stakeholders and officials north of Nambour would consider what you are claiming as a load of horse manure.

Just ask the Toowoomba Turf Club which needs $18mn to provide new lights – isn’t the Downs a major training ground – in fact LGHR understands there are more horses in work there than in Brisbane. Don’t the pioneers of night and twilight racing deserve some reward currently being denies just because a few thousand members need a new grandstand?

About the only positive in the story by that hard-hitting award winning turf scribe ‘Big Ben’ was the admission: ‘THE BRC HAS OFFERED AN UNDISCLOSED FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS THE PROJECT’.

Perhaps if the club didn’t spend hundreds of thousands each year on entertaining ‘mates’ and ‘free-loaders’ on big days, they could contribute some of that as a ‘deposit’. The other option of course is to get their valued sponsors Ladbrokes to hit the can – they’ve got plenty!

 

TRANSPARENCY ISN'T HOLDING INQUIRIES BEHIND CLOSED DOORS 

 IF transparency and integrity are the cornerstones of what QRIC was established to achieve, why do Stewards now have the ability to hold Inquiries of their choice behind closed doors?

It simply makes no sense resurrecting the ‘bad old days’ when ‘Big Russ’ ruled the roost and racing in Queensland – especially the ‘red hots’ - were a laughing stock in the eyes of the nation.

Perhaps QRIC is trying to hide the ‘mistakes’ so often made by a panel of Stewards who are arguably, from the top, not up to the job. Name an occasion since Josh Adam became Chief Stipe when there was a running and handling inquiry involving a top trainer or jockey? Is racing in Queensland that squeaky clean? Ask any top form analyst and he will tell you, it certainly isn’t!

Is there any coincidence to the timing of a Media Release from QRIC headlined: ‘REQUESTS FOR CLOSED HEARINGS IN STEWARDS’ INQUIRIES’. It was circulated only days before the hearing into a jockeys’ room punch-up was continued – surprise, surprise, behind closed doors.

Unless there was a ‘special request’ from one of the parties involved – Noel Callow (who has been charged) or Kyle Wilson-Taylor (cleared of any wrong-doing) what reason could there be for hearing evidence in camera?

The Murdoch Media (namely its website Racenet) was not able to report on the specifics of any evidence given on Tuesday because the QRIC ordered the Stewards’ Inquiry to be closed.

Hard-hitting racing scribe Ben Dorries went into bat for public scrutiny reporting that Racenet was eager to make a submission before stewards as to why it believed the inquiry should be open rather than held behind closed doors but was not afford the opportunity.

There is a touch of hypocrisy to the brave stance by ‘Big Ben' and the Murdoch Media for exposure on this issue when they have steadfastly refused to pressure the Brisbane Racing Club to release Minutes of its controversial AGM last October. Perhaps QRIC needs to introduce free booze and food for certain members of the racing media.

On a serious note the QRIC needs to explain why it has agreed that participants involved in Stewards inquiries may submit an application to request a closed hearing.

Their Media Release explains that Stewards would assess the merits of each application thoroughly, balancing the need for transparency and public interest provisions with the legitimate privacy, medical and welfare concerns of participants.

‘QRIC takes these requests seriously to ensure that participants can provide evidence in an appropriate environment. QRIC’s approach ensures that the integrity of the inquiry process is maintained while respecting the rights and well-being of all parties involved.

‘QRIC remains dedicated to upholding fairness, transparency, and the highest standards of conduct during all Stewards inquiries.’

 

INVITATION TO KIM KELLY TO EXPLAIN NEED FOR CLOSED INQUIRIES

LGHR has the greatest respect for the new-look QRIC and especially how international steward and Deputy Commissioner Kim Kelly operates. But this makes no sense.

We offer Kim the opportunity to explain in more detail – especially why an inquiry into a disagreement between two jockeys in a race overflowing to a physical dust-up off the track was head in camera.

Here’s hoping we’re not heading back to the bad old days where LGHR will recall two particular incidents:

THE first involved a controversial race which resulted in the first major inquiry for Steve Railton after he took over from Ray Murrihy as Chief Steward in Queensland.

Mick Dittman beat a charge after producing a ‘who’s who’ of witnesses, including champion trainer Bruce McLachlan (who did not have a starter in the race in question) and Tommy Pettioni (a Melbourne Cup winning owner).

At the end of the day Railton abandoned the lengthy inquiry after Dittman exposed some flaws in the evidence of his Panel, one of which was Greg Rudolph (said to be the chosen one to take over as Harness Racing Stewards Chairman in Queensland) who arguably had no idea where some key runners were in the race. Perhaps if Railton had called a leading bookmaker and racing scribe to give evidence at the inquiry it might have had a different outcome.     

THE second involved the ‘red hots’ where many believed the Stewards’ Panel were too terrified to take any action that involved the big team raced by Russ Hinze. When John Cremin, now an RQ Steward but back then a second-string driver for Big Russ’s private trainer Darrell Alexander, bobbed up on a stable second-string at the Gold Coast he was the victim of a ‘king hit’ in Silks Restaurant two nights later. The least said about that inquiry the better. Let’s just say it failed ‘lift off’.

LGHR is not suggesting the latest decision by QRIC to close inquiries is a sign that we are returning to those ‘bad old days’. In our opinion there would want to be an extremely good reason for a hearing to be closed which should be revealed to the racing public if all standards of transparency and integrity are to be upheld.

 

QUESTIONING SIMILARITIES BETWEEN MRC &BRC BOARD DRAMAS

QUESTIONS are being asked about similarities of what has been happening behind the scenes at the Melbourne Racing Club and the controversy engulfing the Brisbane Racing Club.

MRC director Barbara Saunders has quit her role just days after raising concerns with Chairman John Kanga about the pending departure of Chief Executive Tom Reilly and the appointment of a new Chief Operating Officer.

Saunders penned a letter to Kanga and other directors last Saturday, after the Chairman had told his fellow directors that Reilly’s position as Chief Executive was untenable. Reilly’s departure from the MRC was announced by Kanga on Monday night.

The ‘governance’ issues surrounding the shock exit of Saunders are arguably ‘shades’ of what has been happening at the BRC for the past 12 months. The sudden departure of CEO Tony Partridge and resignation of Board Director Simon Gleeson have similarities.

They too have cited ‘governance’ issues within a Board. Why the RQ Board or the new LNP Government have not acted after viewing certain privileged documents remains a mystery.

Racing Minister Tim Mander, announcing the Independent Review into the Three Codes in Queensland, highlighted that ‘governance and financial accountability’ would be the main focus. Let’s hope it is!

Director Simon Gleeson steadfastly insists that his resignation was on the basis that his values did not align with those of the Board. The perceived ‘governance ignorance’ of the BRC Board is highlighted by the fact that they refuse to release the minutes of the AGM held in October last year.

It is about time Minister Mander or Racing Queensland utilized their powers under the Racing Act 2002 and investigated what many believe is the non-compliance of the BRC to serious issues of ‘governance’.

 

WELCOME BACK NEV, JUST IN TIME FOR GOOD GRANDSTAND NEWS?

IT was good to see former long-serving BRC Chairman Neville Bell back at the track after a well-deserved break. So much for those who were claiming he had gone MIA.

The Board is said to be optimistic that there will be a major announcement by the Minister to coincide with Stradbroke Day.

That’s odds-on to be a better chance than Eagle Farm attracting a crowd of yesteryear for its biggest meeting of the year.

LGHR discovered this little gem in our mail box this week from TOM of ASPLEY who attended Super Saturday:

‘WHEN I got home from the Farm the wife referred to the ‘massive crowd’ that was in attendance. It copped the response ‘What are you talking about? I doubt there were many more than 6,000 on-course.’ To which she replied: ‘Well that little bald bloke who annoys you and the boys on Channel 7, described it as amazing.’ I told her not to worry about Jason. He would have just been repeating what he was told to do by his AFL mate, the ‘spin doctor’ for the BRC.’

But back to what ‘good news’ might await the BRC Board on Stradbroke Day.

Will it be confirmation of a new Neville Bell Grandstand? But who will pay? Perhaps the Government and the BRC will share the load. It won’t be too well-received by the taxpayers if the LNP cops the lot after telling us of belt-tightening in the upcoming Budget.

 

‘FEATHERS’ HAUNTED BY NAME ‘JOSH’ – EVEN IN HIS RACE-CALLING

IT seems the name ‘Josh’ continues to haunt David Fowler catapulted back to the leading race-calling role in Queensland at the expense of the real No 1.

Coming to the turn in his Derby call, ‘Feathers’ announced that ‘Rogan Josh’ had dropped back to last. Perhaps the reason he added ‘Josh’ to the name of the Derby runner was because he had a Melbourne Cup winner in the back of his mind.

His critics – and they are listening to his every word – reckon it’s Karma and time he gave the game away before the mistakes continue to build as he makes an embarrassment of the way Josh Fleming was replaced.

LGHR still believes you're ‘one of the best’ callers old mate but perhaps it’s time to put that deposit on a unit to see out your days by the beach in South Aussie. One can’t survive forever on free booze and pork chops in the BRC Directors’ Room – leave that to your mate ‘Big Ben’.

 

 

STAKEHOLDERS WANT ASSURANCES PARTNERSHIPS AGREEMENTS BETWEEN CORPORATES & LEADING CLUBS ARE SAFE AS ‘FREE BETS’ 

TO say racing industry stakeholders are nervous and confused would have to be the understatement of the year.

They want to know how safe major partnership agreements involving Queensland’s leading gallops and harness clubs are with Ladbrokes in the wake of legal proceedings with its parent company, the Entain Group.

Ladbrokes have seven-year deals with the Brisbane Racing Club, encompassing Eagle Farm and Doomben and the Albion Park Harness Racing Club. What happens in the event that these fall over if Entain faces a major financial setback?

Entain is currently the subject of an enforcement action from AUSTRAC over breaches of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism funding obligations. That case, set down for the Federal Court in September, has the potential to cost Entain hundreds of millions of dollars in fines.

For a corporation like Entain, this means a maximum penalty of A$33 million per breach, according to ICLG.com. The specific penalties are determined by AUSTRAC in the Federal Court. 

In response to alleged AML/CFT failures highlighted by AUSTRAC, Entain's CEO Gavin Issacs has warned investors of ‘a potentially hefty penalty’ from legal proceedings.

Adding to the woes for Entain, highly-respected Australia and New Zealand Chief Executive Dean Shannon has resigned and will depart at the end of the month.

Shannon becomes the latest and most high-profile executive to depart the Australian and New Zealand operation of the global gambling giant, which runs the Ladbrokes and Neds brands in Australia and has a long-term agreement in place to operate TAB NZ, as well as the ‘betcha’ brand in New Zealand.

Earlier this year, CFO and deputy CEO Lachlan Fitt and New Zealand managing director Cameron Rodger departed the Entain business, while several other senior executives have also left over the past six months. It also disbanded the ownership aspect of the Ladbrokes Racing Club.

(There is no suggestion that this slew of executive exits is in any way related to the court action that Entain is currently facing). “The Australian and New Zealand businesses are entering a new phase of their development and Mr Shannon has agreed it is time for change,” an Entain statement read.

“This transition coincides with the completion of the AML/CTF Uplift Program and the introduction of a "legislative net" to support the New Zealand racing and wagering industry – both are expected to be completed in June.”

“Mr Shannon is committed to ensure a transparent and orderly transition to set the business up for long-term success.”

Shannon has been CEO of Entain since 2019 and overseen a strong expansion of its footprint within Australasia. According to its latest report, Entain holds a 17 per cent market share within Australia, while it now has a dominant position within New Zealand, which could become a monopoly if legislation passes to create a block on overseas operators. 

Sources within the greyhound industry, which is being shut-down in New Zealand, are claiming that thoroughbreds across the Ditch will benefit by up to $100mn currently allocated to the ‘dogs’ which will then be directed to the gallops. They are claiming political interference.

Dean Shannon had previously been CEO of Ladbrokes Australia from 2013 until 2017. He then founded the Neds brand, which was then purchased by GVC (now Entain) in 2018.

During his tenure as the boss of Entain Australia, returns to the industry from that organisation have flourished, securing partnerships north of $50 million, with wagering brands Ladbrokes and Neds at the forefront of some of the three racing code’s major events and initiatives.

After news of Shannon’s departure broke, some of racing’s most influential figures spoke out, including Racing NSW supremo Peter V’landys AM and Aaron Morrision, CEO of Racing Victoria.

“If you look at the form guide on Dean Shannon it speaks for itself,” V’landys said. “No one has been more successful, both personally and through Ladbrokes. His success was extraordinary to say the least. “I hope that he stays involved in the industry as he is a one of a kind innovator and an asset the industry desperately needs.”

Considering the amount of money that Entain makes, especially through its Ladbrokes operation in Australia, one would assume that even a very nasty fine in the tens of millions should have little impact on contracts with racing and harness racing clubs.

It would be nice though if those at the coalface – especially Racing Queensland and the Brisbane Racing Club who have backgrounds with Entain – could provide some assurances  to the industry at a time when these are vitally needed.

 

INROADS OF CORPORATES REDUCING CHANCES OF A NATIONAL TOTE

 WITH the inroads that corporate bookies continue to make into the gambling industry in Australia, it would seem that the odds of a much-needed National Tote are lengthening by the day.

There are too many high profile racing and sporting organisations now relying on corporate sponsorships to survive financially. These bookies, who plunder the punting market while the TAB provides the prizemoney for racing to continue, have too many respected racing officials, top trainers and former leading jockeys, along with leading pollies (right up to the PM), on their speed dials.

What chance is there of a satisfactory outcome when the Albanese Government received the final report of the Inquiry into Online Gambling two years ago and has arguably done next to nothing about its more than 30 recommendations?

And for those punters who point to the advantages of betting with corporate bookies rather than the TAB, they should remember there is no such thing as a ‘free lunch’ substitute ‘bet’ without a catch.

A former leading and highly respected bookie has provided us with a few facts and figures that those ‘doubting Thomas’s’ in the punting brigade might care to consider, under the banner: ‘WHY WE NEED A NATIONAL TOTE’.

He has provided examples of how leading corporates are limiting their risks and reducing the payouts that punters should be receiving.

Here is the information he provided:

THE pools on tote exotics are getting so small because the corporates are betting on these and reducing the pools and subsequently the dividends declared.

They are also getting the extra stake money on both winning and losing bets that either win or may have won because they have limits on payouts.

IF THEY DO NOT PAYOUT CORRECT DIVIDENDS THEY SHOULD NOT BE ABLE TO TAKE THE BETS ON EXOTICS.

Here are the BET LIMITS that currently apply to major corporates:

Bet365:  Arguably the best at $500,000

Betr: $100,000 for all bets on Australian thoroughbred, greyhound or harness races.

Sporting bet: For tote-based bet types, reserves the right to limit the maximum winnings payable to the total size of the relevant tote pool for that bet. If a customer places multiple bets on the same or related markets they will only be eligible to win up to the Maximum Win Limit (combined) for those bets. Similarly, if bets are placed by, or on behalf of a customer across multiple accounts, the Maximum Win Limit will apply to all bets.

Points Bet:  The maximum pay-out (being the total winnings) to any individual client in any 24-hour period is $50,000. This maximum win applies regardless of your stake.

Neds: Quinella, Exacta, Daily Double & Running Double (maximum payout $50,000), Treble ($75,000), Trifecta ($100,000) & Quadrella ($300,000). 

Bet Nation: The maximum pay-out (being the total winnings) to any individual client in any 24- hour period, without prior agreement in writing to the contrary, is $200,000.This maximum win applies regardless of your stake.

SUMMARY of WHAT THIS HAS MEANT TO SOME WINNING PUNTERS:

Bet365:  Because of their limit those who were lucky enough to find the last Melbourne Cup Trifecta ($30,604) & First 4 ($870,448) – combined winnings of over $900,000 received only $500,000.  In other words they were ‘robbed’ of $400,000.  

Sporting Bet: Restricted by tote pool total (you get dividend X$10 – if it pays $1500 expect $15,000). But with a tote pool of only $3,000, the winning the poor old winning punters receives just $3,000. Imagine if you saw the approximates and decided to save on other runners to win $7,500.Your spend of $3600  meant your restricted collect from SB means you received only $3,000 leading to a loss of $600.

Betr: Maximum payout of $100,000 – if you backed the Trifecta and First 4 in the last Melbourne the Tote would have paid you $800,000 more than this corporate ‘robber’.

Points Bet: You were lucky enough to back the TRI & FIRST 4 on the last Melbourne Cup. Expecting a payout in excess of $900,000 (a la the TAB), you get drunk, but the wife a diamond ring, sign-up for a new co and then go to your Points Bet account only to find they have reduced your winning to $50,000 because of their limit.

It goes on and on when you compare what you would have got by backing the winning Trifecta & First 4 on the last Melbourne Cup. Because of maximum payouts instead of receiving in excess of $900,000 from the tote, Neds would have paid you $175,000 and Bet National $200,000.

Little wonder these ‘greedy’ corporates can offer ‘Free Bet’ deals and have some high profile trainers and former jockeys on their payrolls. It’s time rules were introduced to make them pay what the TAB does. But don’t hold your breath to see that happen. Too many important decision makers appear to be in bed with the corporates.

As we highlighted at the start the pools on tote exotics are getting so small because corporates are betting on them and reducing the pools thus reducing the dividends declared. They are also getting the extra stake money on both winning and losing bets that either win or may have won because they have limits on payouts.

IF THEY DO NOT PAYOUT CORRECT DIVIDENDS THEY SHOULD NOT BE ABLE TO TAKE THE BETS ON EXOTICS.

HOOFNOTE: I am sure all other corporates have similar limits to those mentioned. Lloyd Merlehan from Top Sports had a $1 million limit but an amalgamation with Betr meant we lost a good corporate willing to lose $1 million reduced now to a limit of $100,000

 

THIS PUNTER WANTED AN NRL BET – NEDS CUT IT IN HALF, GO FIGURE

A WEEK rarely passes when LGHR doesn’t receive a complaint from a punter claiming to be ‘fleeced’ by a leading corporate bookie. The latest allegation involves NEDS.

Here is his story:

'Neds (now I think that is Ladbrokes) won’t let me put a multiple on. If I am lucky they will accept a $10 bet to win on the horses and sports from about two years ago.

It’s funny because I was in Rockhampton for the ‘slot race’ and met a few of the Ladbrokes crew who tried to get me to bet with them but once I said I had an account but was banned they then replied ‘there is nothing we can do'. I have been expecting them to do this to my Neds’ account.

I wasn’t interested in the promotional stuff but tried to get $470 on the Dolphins as the Cowboys will be without Origin players plus two have been suspended. Their response was: A total of $277.78 @ 1.90 has been accepted. The remaining $195.59 has been rejected. Liability Reached on this Selection. That’s the best Neds can bet as part of a huge global gambling empire. They have to be kidding!

I think the corporates should be made to bet a minimum like the on-course bookies. I am a former bookies and when I used to field at the Gold Coast I was only required to bet to lose $2,000 but I would always bet them odds to $5,000. Before I operated there I always bet the odds to at least $2,000 and often more at the Queensland Carnival meetings.

I will try to do up a list of Corporates maximum wins and how many restrict the payouts. (THAT LIST HAS BEEN PUBLISHED ABOVE).

It’s time for a NATIONAL TOTE and the corporates to be BANNED from BETTING on the MULTIPLES, e.g. if you back a trifecta on say a race in Townsville there is only $3,000 in the pool and you managed to get it 10 times and it pays $1,500 you expect $15,000 . But the corporates only pay the amount in the pool. So you get $3,000. You are denied your stake for the other eight times you had it which is basically refunded. They are banking a fortune from this out of both winning and losing multiples. The old rule if you can’t win there is no bet.

It’s pretty obvious who I am – wonder if they will give me any ‘free bets now’ – probably not as they never did before.' 

 

‘ONLY DANGER TO JOLIESTAR IN GROUP 1 WAS EAGLE FARM TRACK’ 

CHAMPION trainer Chris Waller revealed in the aftermath to the win by outstanding mare Joliestar in the Kingsford Smith Cup on Saturday that he felt her main danger was the way the Eagle Farm track was playing.

Joliestar gave punters who took the shorts a real scare coming from sixth on the turn to nail Zarastro and Golden Mile on the line. Waller credited the timing and precision of star jockey James McDonald in providing another Group 1 win for the record-breaking duo.

With time to watch a race replay some form experts have declared Zarastro unlucky because of the work Angela Jones had to do early to get to the lead on the Tony Gollan-trained sprinter.

Two things were obvious on Super Saturday at the Farm – it was difficult to win from back in the field and near the fence was a no-go zone. The only horse that came from a rearward position was the Phillip Stokes-trained Zaszou in the last with Ethan Brown chancing his hand on the mare closer to the rails than any other winner on the day.

Joliestar won the Kingford Smith Cup coming from sixth on the turn while You Whang raced just off the pace in her form reversal win in the Oaks and Maison Louis enjoyed he run of the race in the Derby.

Run the Eagle Farm card again on a fairer track and no doubt the results would have been different. There has been criticism of the decision to add irrigation to the track midweek but to be fair to the Curator and his staff at the BRC, they were damned if they did and damned if they didn’t. After all, the track was still a SOFT 5 on the day.

 

KING OF THUNDER SHOULD HAVE BEATEN STABLEMATE IN THE DERBY

SPEAKING of some of those horses that were considered unlucky or might have enjoyed Group or Listed success had the track played differently, one was King Of Thunder in the Derby.

A stablemate of the winner, Maison Louis, from the John O’Shea and Tom Charlton Barn, Mark Zahra could be considered a victim of circumstances on King Of Thunder.

He elected to follow the Chris Waller-trained favourite Belle De Telle when JMac had a brain snap and decided to make a long sustained run from near last down the back straight to lead at the 1000m.

Zahra tried to follow him on King Of Louis and after being posted four wide kept coming to finish a gallant second. By the way Belle De Telle after arguably being slaughtered finished seventh, less than three and a half lengths from the winner.

We keep hearing what a great jockey McDonald is – no-one’s arguing with that but given the same opportunities there are others – Damien Lane in particular – who would do just as well – have a look at his recent run of success on the world stage in Japan.

Penito, from the Godolphin barn, is arguably the other standout not to have won a Group 1. Her Oaks second to the Kris Lees-trained roughie You Whang deserved a better fate. She covered a mountain of ground while the winner had the run of the race. The other filly to follow out of the Oaks is the Waller-trained Movin’ Out which got a mile back and finished fourth.

 

GIGA KICK JUST BACK FROM A SPELL NOW HEADED FOR ANOTHER

THE jury is out on Giga Kick after his disappointing sixth in the Kingsford Smith Cup.

 Granted it was difficult to make ground but his effort was still plain not to mention Payline which went woeful after almost causing a boilover in the 10,000. But that’s the Munce-trained horse – they can mix their form.

Stewards didn’t ask for an explanation of the poor run but simply reported: Payline was slow to begin and weakened over the concluding stages. Good one Josh: The blind man on the gate with the Labrador saw that.

When asked to comment on the performance of Giga Kick, jockey Mark Zahra told stewards he was disappointed in the gelding’s finishing efforts. Trainer Clayton Douglas added that he did not think Giga Kick was suited to the racing surface on the day. However the horse had pulled up fine on return to the stable. He also advised it is his intention to send the gelding for a spell. (He only just came back from one!)

Not sure what to think about the efforts of Femminile and Statuario finishing 11^th and 14^th in the Queensland Derby after fighting out the finish of the South Australian classic at their previous start. Femminile was simply never sighted while John Allen may have erred in sticking to the quicksand on the inside turning for home.

 

‘GREEN LIGHT’ FOR NEW MEMBERS’ STAND A CERTAINTY BUT WHO PAYS? STANDBY FOR ‘GREATEST SHOW ON TURF’ WHILE IT IS BUILT

THE new LNP Government and Racing Minister Tim Mander face a ‘no-win’ situation not about the need for a new Members' Stand at Eagle Farm but who will pay for it.

All hell will break loose in the three codes if multi millions is allocated to a new grandstand for the ‘privileged’ few thousand when there are a host of other important industry projects that need funding, from new lights for the track at Toowoomba to replacement of termite-riddled stalls at Cluden Park in Townsville.

That aside a decision needs to be made urgently with the John Power Stand, as it is currently known, due to be condemned in August next year without (at this stage) a clear path to replacement.

The ‘late mail’ suggests the new grandstand will soon receive a ‘green light’ but whether it will be fully funded by the LNP Government, part-paid for by the Brisbane Racing Club or left to Queensland’s leading club to finance remains a mystery.

Minister Mander, who also has the Brisbane 2032 Olympics as part of his portfolio, has the fall-back option of using Eagle Farm for events at the Games which could involve funding of a new grandstand which would overcome the current problem of who will pay.

If there was an about flip on equestrian this would mean walking away from the planned venue at the Toowoomba Showgrounds which the Government has already announced will be upgraded and developed into what Equestrian Queensland describes as a ‘centre of excellence’.

Eagle Farm sounds like a suitable site if sports like baseball/softball, Lacrosse, skateboarding, or (heaven forbid) pickleball and break-dancing were included in the program for the Brisbane Games.

Critics have accused the BRC of putting the ‘cart before the horse’ in reminding the Government of the urgency to have a new grandstand built in a short time frame (just for their members who we understand total no more than 5,000 after the number dropped during the Neville Bell era as Chairman). Unlike some race clubs and sporting arenas that face major disruption and closure during major upgrades, there is the fall back option of Doomben. Reports suggest the BRC would rather erect a corporate tent city to facilitate Members along with invited guests and ‘free-loaders’ that they entertain at a massive six figure cost on big Carnival days.

If that is the case, prepare for ‘The Greatest Show on Turf’ a la a three-ring circus nothing like that performed by Barnum and Bailey at Madison Square Garden.

In the little ring, BRC guests could be entertained between races with ‘Bring On the Clowns’ – no shortage of them with many in the mainstream racing media prepared to do just about anything to appease club officials.

Performing at the same time in Ring Two could be ‘Nifty Neville the Magician’ who can make a Droughtmaster Bull disappear in front of your eyes not to mention the Minutes of the last BRC AGM.

But the stars of the show would undoubtedly be ‘Dazzling Dicky’ and his team of high flyers in the main area. Their tightrope walking act would be a ‘must see’ despite the risk of a BRC favorite falling from Grace. ‘Dazzler’ has insisted they erect a safety net just in case Tiny Tim, the new ‘Kid of the High Flying block’, puts a foot wrong and drops from the tight-rope.

ARGUMENTS FOR & AGAINST FUNDING NEW ‘DIGS’ FOR PRIVILEGED FEW

BUT back to reality and here are the arguments FOR and AGAINST the Government fully funding new ‘digs’ for the Members almost assuredly to be christened the ‘Neville Bell Stand’:

FOR: THE BRC says it needs the ability to deliver an on-course experience befitting of the headquarters of thoroughbred racing in Queensland.

AGAINST: THE BRC should be worrying more about accommodating the punting public than just their Members who arguably only turn out in enough numbers a handful of times a year to warrant a grandstand of the size they want.

FOR: The BRC has historically paid for its capital works, claiming to have spent $50 million on a training facility that directly supports the racing industry. But the Board is adamant a new Members’ Grandstand needs financial assistance from the Queensland Government because ‘it will be creating an asset for the broader community’.

AGAINST: The racing public, the industry as a whole and the taxpayers of Queensland want to know how can it be an asset for the community when use is restricted to ‘Members Only’ and if the BRC can afford to spend $50mn on a training facility and build major luxury unit complexes on course, surely they should have enough in reserve or from profits to fund the grandstand themselves.

FOR: BRC Chief Executive Karl deKroo (whose background has been in newspapers and in corporate bookmaking, isn’t that mob doing well at present?) has highlighted the urgency attached to the start of any new construction to ensure Eagle Farm can operate during its peak racing season with minimal disruption from redevelopment work. He says it will also impact on the Queensland racing industry, and particularly the multitude of regional and country courses which are sustained through the wagering turnover that occurs at Eagle Farm and Doomben.”

AGAINST: Critics say disruption has to be expected with any major development project at a sporting or racing arena and point to Doomben as a fortunate fall-back option for Eagle Farm. They fail to see how wagering turnover could be affected by the construction of a new Members’ Grandstand – most of those who attend that facility, including the ‘invited guests’ and ‘freeloaders’ focus more on having their noses in the trough than participating in the punt.

FOR: THE BRC is said to have been encouraged by the level of engagement from the Government and Racing Minister Mander which suggests there will be a funding announcement after the Budget Estimates Hearing. If the full cost is met by taxpayers and the industry, the LNP will see it as a ‘win’ over Labor who promised but failed to deliver despite the closeness of former Racing Minister Grace Grace to retired BRC Chairman Neville Bell and some of his Board.

AGAINST: THOSE who have been following this political football for some time say there is the prospect of a ‘win-win’ situation for the Government if the BRC agreed to meet part of the cost or if it was funded only on the condition that part of the Members’ Stand was developed and opened for public use. It’s time the punters got some incentive to go to the track slowing down the growing numbers who now prefer to stay at home or go to their local club. Not only do they complain of paying too much to get through the gate for the right to lose their money but some also feel the cost of drinks and food is exorbitant. Many others are highlighting the hundreds of thousands spent each year on entertainment by the BRC for guests, free-loaders and media ‘mates’ of Board Members who double as spin doctors for the club.

THIS is a headache we don’t wish on Minister Mander but it comes with the territory when you win Government. Here’s hoping the LNP remembers their roots and don’t use money on this project that is desperately needed to improve the lot of racing in the country and the bush.

OUTSIDER’S PERSPECTIVE ON WHO PAYS FOR NEW GRANDSTAND

TIMES like these it’s interesting to get an outsider’s perspective and there is no better well-informed racing man than Sydney-based PETER MAIR, a regular contributor to LGHR. Here’s his take on the situation:

‘NOT to labour the morning point but today presented another example of political horse-trading:

.......... The John Power Stand .. condemned .......... without a clear path to a replacement, our ability to deliver an on-course experience........will be severely compromised. This will.... have a dire impact on the BRC. But it will also impact the Queensland racing industry.......... the multitude of regional and country courses which are sustained through the wagering turnover that occurs at Eagle Farm and Doomben.

As I see it the BRC has (should have) the option of using taxes taken from metropolitan racing to build a new stand. If the Government wants to fund regional and country racing, it could (should) make a separate allocation of funds from the Budget.

The deal the BRC is presenting (with an element of brinkmanship) is that the tax-take from metropolitan racing should continue to flow, as an under-the-table 'entitlement', to fund losses on rural racing -- and funds for the new stand should be allocated in the Budget.

This is all a bit back the front -- deceptive, not cleanly honest policy openly disclosed in the broader public interest.

An independent inquiry would say so -- we will see.

EDITOR’S NOTE: We agree with a HOOFNOTE from Peter that there may be some deal being cooked to use Eagle Farm, with a new stand, as an Olympic venue. It makes sense with Minister Mander responsible for both the Brisbane Games and Racing. The only obstacle confronting a decision for total Government funding is if multi millions are spent by the Government on a new grandstand that can only be used by Members – there has to be something for the race-going public in this sort of spending even if it means an upgrade to the ‘plebs’ facilities along with that for the ‘privileged few’.

FEATHERS’IN FIRING LINE, FLEMING FANS MONITORING HIS EVERY CALL 

IT didn’t take long for the legion of supporters angered by the way David Fowler ‘pinched’ his job as Queensland’s No 1 race-caller to get a chance to square up.

It happened on the big midweek card at Doomben on Wednesday when critics are claiming ‘Feathers’ made a balls-up of his call of the finish of a controversial race which saw the TAB and corporate bookmakers payout on the wrong result.

Archie Butterfly started the ball rolling on his well-read website, peterprofit.com under the headline: ‘DAVID CALLS IT WRONG – AGAIN’ following up with a story-line: ‘WHAT else would you expect? To think Tabcorp/Sky chose this chook over Josh Fleming. Decision making at its finest - not.’

The criticism didn’t end there with plenty arriving in the LGHR mail box, some of which we had better not publish but here’s an example.

‘LGHR edited the first to read: Come on ‘Feathers’ – instead of worrying about your fair weather friends in the BRC Board room, focus on getting the calls rights and you mightn't make as many mistakes.

This one remained unchanged as emailed to us:

‘It seems Fowler is struggling to call 10-race cards which his colleagues in the south have no problems with most Saturdays of the year. It seems like only yesterday that SKY dumped the best caller in Queensland, Josh Fleming, but it’s not too late to invite him back to help the ‘poor old fella’ out on big days. Have you thought of shortening those big nights on the punt, pokies and piss at the Albion in the hope of extending your career ‘Feathers’ before the powers-that-be have no choice but to fire you out of a cannon all the way to Adelaide?’

‘STORM IN CALLING TEA-CUP’ BUT QRIC TAKING MATTER SERIOUSLY

WHILE some of David Fowler’s fans (sadly limited these days to his mates on the BRC Board, ‘Big Ben’ and his dad Max) no doubt regard criticism of his call as a ‘storm in a tea-cup’, LGHR hopes the embarrassing situation that occurred at Doomben on Wednesday wasn’t the result of the person responsible for posting results providing them to the TAB and bookies off the call rather than waiting for the official ones.

QRIC is certainly taking the matter seriously and below is a Media Release that they have distributed:

THE Queensland Racing Integrity Commission is aware of a discrepancy between the official minor placings and associated dividends paid out for race two at Doomben on Wednesday, June 4.

QRIC Deputy Commissioner Kim Kelly said the QRIC had been notified of the issue and are reviewing all aspects of the reported discrepancy.

“QRIC are reviewing the matter and working with Tapcorp to establish the circumstances which seemingly led to incorrect minor placings being reported in Race 2 at Doomben today (Wednesday). QRIC has a race result confirmation process in place and at this time is confident that the initial finishing placings called through by Stewards were correct.

“There is no dispute on the 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd placings in the race. However, the order of the second and third placings seems to have been incorrectly finalised in the betting system. As a result wagering entities may have paid out on the incorrect placings,” Kelly said.

QRIC is unable to make any further comment until this review is complete. QRIC will continue to work with Tabcorp in conducting the review process and, where possible, will identify any process improvement insights for further consideration.

QRIC has an obligation to uphold the Rules of Racing and, in doing so, act to both preserve the integrity of the racing industry and safeguard the interests of participants.

Once again Kim Kelly isn’t shirking QRIC’s responsibilities. Let’s wait and see what his inquiries on this matter reveal.

 

STORIES MAINSTREAM  RACING MEDIA ARE TOO TERRIFIED  TO REPORT 

THESE are just two of the feel-good stories being ignored by the Murdoch Media and its popular website Racenet because there is a suggestion that the mainstream racing media is being ‘manipulated’ by a highly-paid individual from his rocking chair at the Brisbane Racing Club.

The Independent Racing Review has been bombarded with complaints that a high profile racing scribe and a racing commentator are being ‘remote controlled’ in what they write and say to ensure there is no criticism of the Brisbane Racing Club.

The first of the stories amazingly ignored by the Murdoch Media and Racenet involves sacked racecaller Josh Fleming being appointed to a high profile role with the Toowoomba Turf Club.

The mainstream media didn’t miss covering the story when Fleming was replaced by David Fowler as Queensland’s No 1 race-caller. SKY claimed his sacking was part of mass redundancies when in fact they had failed to get rid of Josh a few years before following the intervention of radio star, Ray Hadley.

Second time around – with Hadley in retirement – proved lucky for SKY and friends of ‘Feathers’ on the BRC Board who saw him as a ‘better fit’ for the job because of his supposed political influence on the industry through a radio show ‘The Press Room’ which is notorious for its bias toward ‘Fowler’s friends’.

One wonders why ‘Big Ben’ Dorries didn’t report the lifeline thrown to Fleming and his family by the Toowoomba Turf Club where he will be the new Racing and Operations Manager starting next week.

Grant Sheather, the relatively new CEO and the TTC Board, saw an opportunity to use the talents of Fleming – who is extremely popular throughout the industry, especially in the bush.

If the name ‘Sheather’ rings a bell, Grant was a former CEO of the Gold Coast Turf Club before working at Hamilton Island. Unlike a couple of his colleagues in south-east Queensland, Sheather doesn’t possess a Degree in Corporate Bookmaking. He possesses what they don’t – an understanding of how the industry operates.

 

TIME FOR SOME SCRIBES TO RECITE CODE OF ETHICS FOR JOURNALISM

THE other story feel-good story that is waiting to be written involved a small family breeding enterprise with qualifiers for two of the Group 1’s at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

When you see who’s involved it’s easy to understand why the Murdoch Media or Racenet wouldn’t want to be involved and why ‘Big Ben’ would run as fast as he can away for it.

The Gleeson family bred Rothfire (Kingsford Smith Cup) and Sunworshipper (Queensland Oaks). If the name rings a bell the principals are Simon and his dad Wally – the former a Member of the BRC Board until he refused to toe the line on certain integrity issues and was forced out and the latter who is fighting for the release of the AGM Minutes to expose why his son departed his role with Queensland’s leading race club.

Unfortunately, Rothfire has been undergoing treatment for a minor hoof issue and trainer Rob Heathcote says is likely to be scratched which means he will miss an important lead-up to Saturday week’s $3 million Stradbroke.

Rothfire arguably should have won the Doomben 10,000 at his last start when nailed on the line by Sunshine In Paris after racing wide throughout. The five-year-old hasn’t won for 18 months but is the winner of 10 races and almost $3.5 million in prizemoney. Gleeson Thoroughbreds bred him out of the Hussonet mare, Huss On Fire.

They also bred the underrated filly Sun Worshipper and have retained an interest in her. Despite a horror draw in Saturday’s Oaks (for which she is a $61 chance), the daughter of Reset mare Belief has been well prepared by Toowoomba trainer Matt Kropp.

Sun Worshipper ran third in the Listed Gold Bracelet at the Gold Coast behind Pinito then a closing 6^th in the G2 The Roses at Doomben beaten five lengths by Oaks favorite Philia. The extra distance of Saturday’s G1 fillies classic should suit her and one gets the impression if the track stays in the soft range she has a place chance for those who like to throw roughies into their Multiples.

So once again we have two stories being ignored for all the wrong reasons by a leading scribe who should be reminded that a journalist is there to inform the public and nothing else.

 

PB SUGGESTS: MORE THINGS CHANGE MORE THEY STAY THE SAME

ONE of Queensland’s best known, no-nonsense (and in the opinion of many, highly respected) racing identities for decades – Peter Bredhauer – tell us he has spoken to the Independent Racing Review about a 'warts and all' submission he made. Here's hoping he has their attention.

Bredhauer has worked in almost every facet of the industry – from his time as an amateur jockey to owner-breeder, race-broadcaster, form analysts, bookmaker and price assessor, race club committeeman, operator of Darling Downs Bloodstock spelling farm, Racing Appeals Panellist and Queensland Principal Club Board Member.

LGHR struggles to find anyone more qualified to make judgement on the industry in Queensland. Because of his no-nonsense approach and outspokenness Bredhauer has crossed swords with some high profile clubs and industry identities including the old Queensland Turf Club (now BRC), one of the country’s leading stewards in Ray Murrihy and prominent racing (now semi-retired) scribe Bart Sinclair. Their battles have been legendary – take it from LGHR who has witnessed some of these first hand.

A major issue that PB has raised with the Review is the urgent need for a National Tote and an immediate Turnover Tax on corporate bookies, who he dislikes even more than LGHR, if that's possible.

Bredhauer, a former bookie, told the Review: “They have stuffed England, stuffed Ireland and now are doing it to us. Their return to the industry is .6% in England compared to 16% in Japan and 8% in France. We are losing billions of dollars in revenue.”

He has warned of the impending problems with the re-homing of thoroughbreds and describes it as ‘a disaster waiting to happen.’ “With the crippling drought currently in Victoria and South Australia they have a huge problem and as you know in Queensland we have more droughts then good seasons, so our turn won't be far away.

“Can you imagine in 10 years’ time we will ‘supposedly’ be re-homing 30,000 horses in Australia? That would be ‘great’ in the middle of a raging drought. I have personally been riding horses since I could walk and I can guarantee you that only a small percentage can be re-homed.

“Because of their highly-strung breed, bred for speed and racing, and spending the early part of their lives galloping flat out in circles around racetracks not many adapt to the slow pace alternative of show horses, stock horses, and equestrian events that these so-called ‘do-gooders’ in the city think they can do immediately. I heard last week a girl in Victoria who was supposedly re-homing 75 horses on a farm has walked away from her endeavors. Hay is currently over $500 a ton down there.”

Bredhauer has also addressed areas such as stewards (especially the training of young ones), along with industry corruption (especially in the racing media) and how everyone who follows racing or is involved should get an ‘unedited’ version of the book, The Gambling Man (they are still available but scarce as hen’s teeth) which gives a ‘great insight into racing in Queensland) and some of its personalities.

“WHEN I arrived in Brisbane in 1981 I couldn’t believe what I was seeing,” Bredhauer says in his submission to the Independent Racing Review. A turf journalist was allowed access to the jockeys’ rooms at all tracks. No other journalist enjoyed the same privilege.

“In conjunction with (notorious gangster) George Freeman in Sydney races were being rigged, jockeys paid off, prices manipulated and sent via the press room phone (before every race) to the SP Network in Australia; stories were being written per favour of the cheque-book of breeders, studs, bloodstock agents etc. Even a couple of clubs were paying to have form guides published.

“When Judge Ned Williams oversaw the Royal Commission into the drug scene in Queensland, the phone in the press rooms at Eagle Farm and Doomben were tapped. You are only allowed one guess who they caught red handed.”

It goes on with controversial incidents that occurred, highlights a race run at Eagle Farm in 1996 and who ran the betting money for involved jockeys and why an inquiry into that race failed. This might be a long way back in the rear-vision mirror but there is still a smell about Queensland racing and the mainstream media which the Review needs to examine and make some recommendations about. Time will tell.

LGHR is sure that readers would like to hear more of what Bredhauer has to say. They should seek a copy of an address he made to a National Racing Conference when a Board Member of RQ some years ago. It makes for good reading, some incredible accusations and yet no legal action was taken.

To finish off here is a funny story if it wasn’t so serious that he provided to the Review:

“There was an occasion some years ago where a prominent trainer had a newspaper photographer turn up at his stables early one morning. When the trainer asked the photographer why he was there, this was the reply: “I’m here to take some photos of the Stewards raiding your property this morning.” It seems the Chief Steward had apparently tipped off his mate, the senior racing scribe, about the eminent raid.

 

THOSE TRYING TO DERAIL RACING REVIEW NEED TO SHOW SOME RESPECT FOR MINISTER MANDER - NO ‘RUN OF THE MILL’ POLLIE

MINISTER Tim Mander doesn’t deserve the disrespect of those who are trying to sabotage the Independent Review into the Three Codes of Racing in Queensland by running scare tactics that it will be a whitewash.

It’s hard to believe how low certain racing officials of the past with political motives, aided by ‘mates’ in the mainstream racing media, have been prepared to stoop to get their false messages across.

LGHR has never met Minister Mander (in fact there are some of his colleagues that we wouldn’t piss on if they were on fire) but we sincerely believe – that unlike some previous Commission of Inquiries into Racing which were motivated by political revenge – this INDEPENDENT REVIEW is just THAT and will deliver what all three codes of the industry desperately need in Queensland.

Those ‘fair weather’ friends of Mander, who have re-emerged hoping to return to the fold in administrative roles with the future control body (in whatever format it is established) are behaving like political ‘animals’.

Whispering to their associates in the industry that ‘they’ have start with ‘the man in charge’ and are using their influence to ensure there is no ‘independence’ in the Review is a disgraceful reflection on the Minister and those conducting the Review, especially Kym Daly whose handling of widespread interviews with concerned stakeholders has been nothing but exemplary. (For purposes of transparency I was invited to sit down with Kym for a discussion on all things racing).

LGHR is convinced that Mander is not your ‘run of the mile’ pollie, many of whom would eat their young. A practising Christian and Bible College Graduate, he was a highly respected National Rugby League referee who officiated at the Grand Finals in 2004 and 2005. His awards include 2005 International Referee of the Year and 2005 Queensland Father of the Year.

Hardly the background you would expect for a political career. This is a rare breed of ‘squeaky clean’ MP who would rather throw himself over a cliff than do the wrong thing by an industry which he was pleased to shout from the rooftops during the week contributes up to $2.5 billion per annum to the Queensland economy.

 

THOSE SCARED OF WHITEWASH SABOTAGE ARE 'DUMB AS DOG SHIT'

UNFORTUNATELY, there are a growing number of people in the industry who are questioning the ‘independence of this Review’ at the half way mark.

Those who accept the scare suggestions that the Minister is listening to the wrong people, need to realise that unlike them he is ‘smart enough’ and not ‘dumb as dog shit’ to see through these scam artists.

It’s a sad state of affairs when the rumour mill is in overdrive quoting an RQ high-flyer of the past as saying (no doubt he will deny it) that the Minister will only accept Review recommendations that the LNP wants and that there are political colleagues who will influence him when it comes to anything controversial that might damage their racing ‘mates’.

And what about the racing media prima donna, who supposedly told associates in confidence that he had done a ‘snow job’ on Kym Daly and another who ran back to his mentor at the BRC with a message: ‘Don’t worry I kicked up for you’?

Truth be known these ‘grubs’ – who unfortunately still hold positions of influence in racing – are being told by certain officials what a good job they are doing when behind the scenes the general industry know them for what they are.

One common denominator that keeps emerging to haunt one would-be-if-he-could-be in the industry is the amount of money he owes which some say couldn't be repaid in another lifetime. 

 

HERE ARE ASSURANCES THAT STAKEHOLDERS WANT FROM MINISTER

IF the Racing Minister has some concerns that the ‘troublemakers’ could derail the Review process, he can bury them in one foul swoop.

All that is needed are a few guarantees from Tim Mander on behalf of the Government:

• Unlike Labor and its Minister Grace Grace who refused to release a report on an investigation into QRIC, Mander could provide a guarantee now that he will release results of the Review and its recommendations to the industry and racing public when it is completed.
• The Minister could give an assurance right now that in the event of a new Board or similar control body being appointed when the Review is completed former Board Members or Directors of Clubs or Associations will be ineligible.
• And that certain contentious issues like the failure of the BRC to release a copy of the Minutes of their last AGM to Members, will be investigated by the Review. The Minister has emphasised that the scope of the Review will include as its first priority Governance of the racing industry. That  raises the question whether the RQ Board is in contempt of Parliament by ignoring the powers of the Racing Act in not enabling Member Wally Gleeson to access the AGM minutes. Legal opinions on this issue are varied but that is what the Act requires.

Lack of communications with the Minister’s Office has been an issue raised by several parties with LGHR. The latest example is a story – which sounds reliable – that is doing the rounds that Lachlan Murray’s term as Acting CEO of RQ has been extended by an amazing 12 months - they may as well make it full-time.

Well-informed website THE STRAIGHT reports today that Murray's tenure as interim CEO has in fact been extended by a year with the Government overriding a Racing Act provision which limits someone acting in the position for longer than three months.

Murray assumed the role after Jason Scott first gave his six-month notice of departure in January and was then seconded for 'dog duties' at the new Q in mid-February.

Under the Queensland Racing Act, the RQ Board can appoint an acting CEO for a 'period of not more than three months' and may not appoint any person for more than three months in a year.

 

 

With some the jury remains out on Murray because of his corporate bookmaking background which they see as a major conflict of interest.

That has led to speculation that there will be a total revamp of RQ, with the prospect of the Board being replaced by another control body and the appointment of a new CEO on hold (or they must have struggled to find a suitable candidae) until that takes place. Lack of information can lead to stakeholders being misled on what is actually happening.

 

PRIORITISE NEW LIGHTS FOR TOOWOOMBA OVER EF MEMBERS STAND

LGHR continues to receive inquiries from stakeholders and punters wanting to know when the lights will be switched back on for night racing in Toowoomba.

For safety reasons Clifford Park has been restricted to day meetings since March when the track was plunged into darkness shortly into race six after a contactor in a distribution board burnt out.

The problem was rectified quickly but QRIC stewards required a trial period to ensure there would be no repeat of the blackout which could have proved disastrous for horses and jockeys.

That period seems to have been extended with afternoon meetings programmed for Toowoomba through to the end of June but the likelihood of a return to twilights in July.

The TTC has lobbied the Government for a new set of lights to be installed which LGHR understands will cost in the range of $18 million. Officials and stakeholders are hopeful there will be funding allocated at the upcoming Budget Estimates Hearings.

Toowoomba hosted the first night race meeting in Australia in September 1996 and quickly became the home of Twilight Racing in Queensland.

Although lights have since been installed at the Sunshine Coast and more recently the Gold Coast, Toowoomba should be rewarded for pioneering night racing.

The upside of the delay in turning the lights back on at Clifford Park is that it is Winter when the weather is often too cold and foggy for the likes of most trainers, jockeys and punters.

The downside is the uncertainty over whether the Government will allocate the millions needed for a new set of lights which should certainly be of higher priority than a new members’ grandstand for the privileged few at Eagle Farm.

 

SHOULD TRAINERS HAVE BEEN CONSULTED ON GROUP 1 TRANSFER?

THERE are too many times in racing when ‘you’re damned if you do and damned if you don’t’ just ask the Brisbane Racing Club.

That could well apply to their decision to refuse to release a copy of the Minutes of the last AGM but on this occasion LGHR is referring to the decision on what day to transfer the washed out Kingsford Smith Cup to.

You can’t blame the BRC for not wanting to transfer Group 1 races to a Wednesday – most punters don’t care about midweek racing any more. Adding the Derby and Kingsford Smith Cup and creating an Oaks Day blockbuster at Eagle Farm next Saturday was a no-brainer.

But read the headlines in the daily ‘Fish & Chips’ wrapper or on-line and a couple of leading trainers are not happy that the Stradbroke lead-up isn’t being run on Wednesday.

That prompts the question: Did the BRC (aided and abetted by RQ) rush into the decision to postpone the Group 1 to Saturday when they should have taken a deep breath and consulted the trainers involved in the race?

Joe Pride has questioned why only the G3 Fred Best Classic was moved to Doomben on Wednesday and not the Kingsford Smith too.

Pride told the Murdoch Media that the preparation of his hope Private Eye would be compromised if the gelding ran first-up in Saturday’s Kingsford Smith Cup and then backed up quickly in the Group 1 $3 million Stradbroke Handicap at Eagle Farm.

“I’m not going to run Private Eye in the Kingsford Smith Cup and then back up a week later in the Stradbroke Handicap,’’ Pride said. “I don’t want to give him a compromised preparation and have a half-hearted go at two Group 1 races. I’m disappointed he has to miss the Kingsford Smith Cup but this way we can give him his best chance in the Stradbroke.’’

Victorian trainer Jason Warren will roll the dice and run his star mare Benedetta in Saturday’s Kingsford Smith Cup before backing up in the Stradbroke seven days later – but admits he has some reservations..

Warren said the decision could hurt his Stradbroke hopes but with Brisbane’s fickle weather this year, he didn’t want to risk five-year-old Benedetta running on a heavy track at Eagle Farm on Saturday week in Queensland’s premier race.

“It jeopardises the Stradbroke without any shadow of a doubt but there’s a good week of weather and we probably have to take it while we’ve got it,” Warren told the Murdoch Media on Monday.

“I’d hate to wait a week and end up on a heavy track in the Stradbroke. We’ve got a horse ready to go and win a Group 1 and if we get a decent surface then I think we’ve got to take it.”

Jolie Star remains $3 favorite for the Kingsford Smith with trainer Chris Waller already ruling out a Stradbroke start. The Clayton Douglas stable has indicated they are unlikely to progress either with Giga Kick $5 for Saturday’s dress rehearsal because of the weight he has been alloted.

 

HIGH PROFILE HARNESS ROLES FOR KEY GALLOPS IDENTITIES

TWO high profile identities in the gallops – RQ Executive General Manager Operations Adam Wallish and South Australian Racing Operations Manager Greg Rudolph - are reportedly moving to new roles in harness racing   

Victorian Minister for Racing, Anthony Carbines, has appointed  Wallish to the Harness Racing Victoria Board, adding extensive strategic and leadership experience.

Wallish was appointed for a three-year term this week, returning to Victoria after almost eight years with Racing Queensland, including the last six as Executive General Manager Operations.

“Mr Wallish has dedicated his career to advancing racing, and his expertise, knowledge, and experience will greatly benefit Harness Racing Victoria,” Minister Carbines said.

Wallish becomes the fifth member of the HRV Board, joining chair Bernard Saundry, Judy Rothacker, Dennis Bice, and John Doherty.

“Adam has been a leading harness racing voice in his time at Racing Queensland and will make a terrific Board member,” Chairman Saundry said.

“Harness racing in Victoria is in a significant transition, and Adam’s extensive experience guiding sporting organisations to a surer footing will be invaluable.”

The Greg Rudolph (pictured above) appointment as Chief Steward of Harness Racing Queensland has yet to be confirmed but those at the coalface say his experience in stewarding and administrative roles at the gallops is seen as a good fit.

Some who have already heard the news are questioning whether Rudolph will possess the toughness needed to clean up the basket integrity case of the three codes in Queensland. Put bluntly, racing at Albion Park has been on the nose for too long and even the presence of Australia’s greatest pace, Leap To Fame and an upcoming Inter-Dominion will struggle to convince the crowds that on a normal Saturday they can bet with confidence.

Rudolph joined the SA gallops Stewards’ Panel in early 2021. A former Racing NSW Deputy Chairman of Stewards, he has also worked in Queensland. He gained broad industry experience in key roles (General Manager Racing & Commercial Operations for Racing NSW) and then dealt with a range of important issues while working in NSW.

Remembered for his days as a Senior Steward in the Steve Railton panel in Queensland, Rudolph also brings some past baggage from his time as CEO of Hawkesbury Race Club – although LGHR has been reliably informed that there are two sides to that story.

Rudolph hit a hurdle when CEO of Hawkesbury Race Club which led to a legal action by Sponsorship and Promotions Manager Vivienne Leggett over his alleged 'oppressive behaviour'.

Leggett, who had worked for the club for 25 years, won a $2.8 million payout ‘for her suffering’ and for being allegedly denied annual leave, long-service leave and commission payments. 

The Federal Court heard that Rudolph's conduct caused Leggett to develop a significant depressive disorder with anxiety that has left her unemployable for almost six years. The court ruled in Leggett's favour in February and in late May awarded her the millions in compensation.

EDITOR’S NOTE: THERE has been no confirmation of the Greg Rudolph appointment but considering the lack of quality available stewards in Australia today we believe he will do his best to try andclean up this diabolical mess in Queensland harness racing. Looking at who is involved in said to be organising the races at Albion Park (it might surprise a few) would be a good place to start.  

 

 MORE THINGS CHANGE IN QLD RACING MORE THEY STAY THE SAME

STORY goes that MANUEL, the ‘old faithful’ of the Brisbane Racing Club, filled in for the Paparazzi taking a few happy snaps in the entertainment arena at the Farm on Saturday – largely because the rain saved him from his weekly chore of washing and polishing the directors’ cars.

Be that true or not, the attached photograph arrived on the desk of LGHR after it fell off the back of a beer truck, leaving the track late in the day after delivering much-needed emergency supplies when ‘Racing Royalty’ got their noses out of the food trough long enough to realise that the last few races had been called off when jockeys pulled the pin.

The ‘wag’ who sent us the happy snap of former Racing Minister Grace Grace with new BRC chairman Richard Morrison and champion trainer Tony Gollan and his gorgeous wife Jane, added a racing poker puzzle caption which read:

‘WHAT trumps two Kings and a Queen?’ The answer: ‘A full house when you add a ‘joker’ – in this case the Racing Minister who was absent from the photo.

LGHR has no doubt the BRC invited Tim Mander to enjoy the trackside hospitality as one of their many guests on Derby Day. We’re not sure whether he was there or not.

One regular racegoer, whose mail can be unreliable at times, swears he saw Tim enjoying a pie and a cup of coffee in the ‘plebs’ area with renegade BRC member Wally Gleeson.

Perhaps Wally was giving him a friendly reminder that under the Racing Act there are certain requirements of the Minister and in return Tim had suggested they call in the SES to look for those missing minutes from the last BRC AGM.

The other story doing the rounds is that Minister Tim is recuperating after having surgery to remove the head of a former RQ high flyer from his rear end. This little petal has unfortunately emerged again, claiming close friendship with Mander and those close to the coalface say he is trying to influence the Minister in an out-of-bounds political arena (the ‘independent inquiry) and also kick up for job-for-the-boys on the control body. It would be a shame if Mander listened to this ‘fair weather friend’ – in the words of his old whistle-blowing days Tim should not just sin bin him for 10 minutes but send him to the sideline forever which is where he belongs.

Track whispers (be aware that those who know don’t tell and those who tell don’t know) suggest that the Minutes have been hidden in Manuel’s personal locker at Eagle Farm alongside his autographed photo of the premiership winning Brisbane Lions and his beloved Order of Australia Medal, well deserved for services to racing. Who else would wear out 50 pairs of Julius Marlow’s in a year, scampering several times every race day from the jockeys’ room to the bookies’ ring? That was way back when they built special kennels at the Brisbane tracks to house the stewards’ Labradors. And it's a far cry from the days when Manuel was a lot harder to catch. But who wouldn't cop a six-figure sum in retirement simply to control the weak-kneed racing media and to answer the call: 'More Drinks' or 'Shoe Shine, Boy'?

Back to the happy snap from Saturday and full praise to the BRC for not abandoning Grace Grace after she was relegated to the Opposition cross-benches. The lady has been a great friend of the BRC, especially MIA former Chairman Neville Bell.

It’s not as though she is of no use to the BRC boys these days. There are plenty in the industry who believe Grace is the ‘de facto’ Racing Minister. After all the Board that Labor appointed, under her guidance, still runs Racing Queensland. Perhaps there is some Irish logic in Tim Mander’s decision to leave them there until the ‘independent’ Review into the three codes of racing is completed as he has no plans for a future Board but a new body instead – which sounds a real good idea.

If there was a downside to Saturday's Carnival Race Day – apart from the damn rain which again spoiled proceedings – the question of what the BRC spends on entertainment has again raised its ugly head. And don't expect any criticism of this from the mainstream media. 'Feathers' and 'Big Ben' are the first in line for a free drink or pork chop while they get their forelocks tugged for doing a good job (perhaps that should read pat on the head with lack of curls both now possess).

At a time when the BRC wants the industry or Government to foot the multi-million dollar bill for a new ‘Neville Bell’ Members’ Stand – what could be saved by scaling down these expensive soirees could serve as a deposit.

In fact, if the unit developments are such a financial windfall and success for the BRC, they should pay for the new stand themselves. Grace Grace ran out of time convincing Labor to shell out a few more million to the BRC (on top of what was spent by the industry fixing the Eagle Farm track) but perhaps she is still advising them on how to convince the LNP Government to do the same.

Many clubs – from all three codes – are awaiting the up-coming Government Estimates Hearing where Treasurer David Janetski will announce how much is in the pot for spending on racing infrastructure.

What we do know is that the new world class greyhound facility The Q has gone excessively over-budget with cost estimates now above $90 million (farcical when you consider a recent meeting had to be called off because there were pools of water on the track; they forgot to include a required set of scales to weigh the dogs and there is a blind spot from the race callers’ box).

If there is money allocated by RQ or the Government for a new Members’ Stand at Eagle Farm all hell will break loose. With so many other desperately needed projects to fund – new lights for night racing at Toowoomba just one of them – stakeholders aren’t going to cop too much more spending on stands for the privileged few, the greyhounds (already under fire over the spending on a track at Bundaberg) and the ‘red hots’ (where next to nobody turns up for racing as integrity on the track continues to haunt Albion Park on the eve of an Inter-Dominon).

Tim Mander inherited a ‘poisoned chalice’ with the Racing Portfolio. LGHR still believes he is the best man for the job and doing it as well as can be expected in the circumstances. Time will tell!

We have been impressed with the way his old school ‘mate’ Kym Daly has handled his new job talking to stakeholders about their concerns as part of the Independent Review. The Minister needs to heed the recommendations of that report and to tell so-called 'fair weather friends' trying to turn it into a ‘whitewash’ to take a hike.

And finally Mr Mander you need to take a closer look at the requirements of a Racing Minister under the Act before wishing and hoping that the BRC AGM debacle will go away because it won’t.

There are a lot of respected and concerned racing identities asking questions behind the scenes, many of them with ties to the LNP. They don’t accept the reasons for the failure of RQ and the Government not instructing the BRC to hand over documents members are entitled to read.

And if you think Parliament is a safe haven with Labor and Grace Grace keen to sweep this debacle under the carpet and pressure from sections of the LNP with ties to the BRC to do likewise, think again – there are MP’s with another Party being briefed for some Parliamentary debate not to mention the matter being taken to a more powerful adjudicator.

In the meantime, thanks to whoever sent us that Happy Snap – it just goes to show the more things change in racing in Queensland, the more they stay the same!

 

JOCKEYS PULLED RUG OUT FROM UNDER THE STEWARDS AT THE FARM

CHIEF Steward Josh Adams showed once again why many punters believe that he is not up to the job with the circumstances leading to the postponement of the Derby Day meeting at Eagle Farm just another example.

LGHR agrees with what Archie Butterfly reported on his website, peterprofit.com:

‘We felt the track was safe but it was the visibility and the kickback which ultimately resulted in the remainder of the card being cancelled.’ – QLD Chief Steward Josh Adams.

Somewhat bizarrely given what appeared obvious to all, the Stewards wanted the riders to race on at Eagle Farm yesterday, claiming the track was safe.

They were the only ones who thought so.

The jockeys banded together and said no, refusing to ride any more after Race 5.

Adams changed his private tune when he went public, giving the impression that calling off the meeting was the stewards’ decision when it clearly wasn’t.

Adams provided the ‘quote of the day’ when he said the track was safe but the kickback wasn’t.

Where does kickback come from Mr Adams?

Yes that’s right, the track.

And what does kickback do to the track?

Leaves holes for horses to step in and break their legs.

He’s a company man through and through Adams, which is how he got the top job so young, but is it really his job to stand up for a fast falling apart track?

I wouldn’t think so, would you?

It doesn’t even appear that Adams was out there inspecting the track.

It’s good to be the boss.

At least you stay dry?

That’s Archie’s take and we agree with it adding that Derby Day was a disaster waiting to happen.

Queensland racing copped plenty on Victoria racing on Saturday over the SOFT 5 track rating and mixed messages from the Track Manager about the weather forecast.

It seems the Victorians had a different reading on what lay ahead when they looked at the BOM satellite pictures of the looming rain which eventually claimed the big meeting. Why didn’t the BRC track staff and stewards see it the same way? They were living the dream along with their bosses at the BRC.

And now the continuing rain has claimed Cup Day at Kilcoy which is a shame for the ‘Moonee Valley of the North’ although some punters breathed a sigh of relief not having to try and find a winner on what they unkindly suggest would have been ‘a goat track transformed into a ploughed paddock.’

 

 

MINISTER REMINDS QLD: RACING PROVIDES $2.5bn ECONOMY BOOST

THE racing industry in Queensland contributes up to $2.5 billion per annum to the state’s economy, independent economic data has revealed.

IER – a specialist in the tourism, events and entertainment industries – has compiled a report which confirms that racing in the state has grown its contribution by $50 million year on year.

Of that $2.5 billion headline figure, thoroughbred racing delivers $1.9 billion, greyhound racing $331 million and harness racing $233 million.

The industry sustains 14,472 full-time roles in Queensland, 48 per cent as a result of direct industry activity. The overall number is 52 per cent higher than it was in 2016.

“Racing Queensland’s latest Size and Scope Report once again highlights the sheer size and strength of the Queensland racing industry,” Racing Minister Tim Mander said.

“The racing industry continues to be a vital contributor to Queensland, headlined by its near $2.5 billion annual contribution to the state’s economy, whilst continuing to support close to 14,500 full-time jobs. “

“The Crisafulli Government is steadfast in its support for the racing industry, which hosts close to 32 meetings a week and supporting almost 50,000 participants from Birdsville to Cooktown and everywhere in between.”

Mander is heading up a full review of the industry.

“The focus of this review is ensuring a vibrant, sustainable future for the sector. I am looking forward to receiving the Review and its recommendations later this year,” he said.

RQ Chair Steve Wilson said while there had been challenges, the overall impact of the image was significant.

“Racing runs through the veins of so many Queenslanders, and the sheer size and scale of our industry remains remarkable,” Wilson said.

“It’s a significant achievement that, despite the ongoing challenges, the industry has maintained a continued rise in value added contribution, with more than half directly benefiting regional economies.”

Read the full report

IS QLD RACING STRUGGLING FOR VIABLE COMMERCIAL RELEVANCE?

IN response to the above, our regular SYDNEY contributor PETER MAIR provided his feedback:

‘IT is not just Queensland that promotes its racing industry as a wonderful contributor to the State economy.

Truth told, the probability is that 'racing' is a handicap on the welfare of the State -- most of the resources employed and capital tied up in racing would be more productive if employed and deployed elsewhere.

At a more simple level it is just not credible to present the 'sow's ear', that is Queensland racing, as some 'silk purse' -- it simply is not, it is struggling for viable commercial relevance.’

 

TOOWOOMBA TURF CLUB BOOSTS LEADERSHIP AT STATE’S  LEADING TRAINING HUB WITH APPOINTMENT OF JOSH FLEMING TO NEW ROLE 
THE Toowoomba Turf Club is proud to announce the appointment of well-known racing identity Josh Fleming as its new Racing & Operations Manager, effective June 10.

Josh, a respected voice in the Australian racing scene, brings over 20 years of experience to the role. He began calling races at just 14 and went full-time in 2003, earning a strong reputation for his passion and deep knowledge of the sport. Now, he’s coming home — and stepping into a key leadership role at one of Queensland’s most important racing hubs.

The Toowoomba Turf Club isn’t just a local favorite, home to the Weetwood and King of the Mountain — it’s the largest regional training centre in Queensland, with over 700 horses in work every month. It’s a vital part of the State’s racing industry, playing a key role in developing local talent and sustaining the livelihoods of countless trainers, jockeys, stable hands, and support staff across the Darling Downs.

Club CEO Grant Sheather says Josh’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter:

“Josh’s depth of experience, his understanding of racing and the importance of country racing, makes him a perfect match for the role. We are proud to operate Queensland’s largest regional training centre, and it’s critical we have strong leadership to keep our racing operations running at the highest standard. Josh will no doubt help us deliver exactly that.”

The Toowoomba Turf Club hosts regular race meetings, drawing participants and racing fans from all over the region. From behind the scenes to the front of house, the club’s team is committed to delivering a seamless and exciting experience for everyone involved.

Josh said he’s excited to stay in the industry and contribute locally in a new way:

“When the opportunity came up, it just felt right. I’m very grateful for the chance to stay involved in racing after a great career with Sky Racing, to be based in Toowoomba, and to work closely with the trainers and team at such an important Club for regional Queensland.”

Chairman Jason Ward added:

“Josh’s arrival is great news not just for the Club but for the whole Darling Downs community. He brings with him a wealth of experience and genuine passion for the sport, which will only strengthen our race day operations and our standing within the region and the Queensland racing industry.”

The Toowoomba Turf Club remains committed to raising the bar in regional racing for industry participants, continuing its proud tradition of excellence, celebrating its history and supporting the local community.

 

GIGA KICK WINS SATURDAY IF ZAHRA RIDES BETTER THAN HE DID IN SA

THE career of one of Australia’s top sprinters Giga Kick has reached the crossroads with quiet whispers that leading stables are trying to ‘poach’ The Everest winner from young trainer Clayton Douglas.

Giga Kick is second favorite behind Sydney mare and Newmarket Handicap winner Joliestar in Saturday’s Group 1 Kingsford Smith Cup at Eagle Farm but has not won since the 2023 Doomben 10,000.

The multiple Group 1 winner, with over $12 million in Stakes earnings, has raced only five times since and had a year on the sideline (with a slow healing serious muscle tear and bone damage) after finishing third in the G2 McEwen Stakes at Moonee Valley in September 2023.

Some are calling it bad luck – others a terrible ride by champion jockey Mark Zahra – when Giga Kick ran an eye-catching first-up 3^rd in the G1 Goodwood at Morphettville on May 10.

Considering the controversy when Craig Williams was sacked as the rider of Giga Kick after the McEwen Stakes in 2023, the Douglas camp have been very understanding of the handling of the five-year-old be Zahra in South Australia.

He went back to near last, was trapped four wide then hooked out to the middle of the track on the home turn closing strongly behind Reserve Bank. In the circumstances Giga Kick was set an impossible task – a victim of circumstances one might say.

 

WAS ZAHRA’S RIDE ANY BETTER THAN THAT WILLIMAS WAS SACKED OVER

SOME punters are unfairly comparing the Zahra ride to that of Williams which resulted in Racing Manager Rod Douglas being fined for making inappropriate comments.

This was after he told Radio TAB:

"I'd have strangled him (Williams) with my bare hands. I'd have strangled him in the mounting yard. There's no excuse for what he did.

"It wasn't all about winning that race. He knows where we're at with the horse. He knows he's three weeks until the Premiere (Stakes) and five weeks to The Everest.

"It just doesn't make any sense to what he did. Inexcusable and we'll see what plays out.
"He knew where we were at and that's the bit that's hard to cope with.”

Fast forward to the Goodwood and some are asking if the ride of Zahra was any better and what effect it will have on the horse. Time will tell and we only have to wait until Saturday to see what the future holds for Giga Kick.

‘I think the big track at Eagle Farm will suit him. They will know he’s in the race,’ Douglas said while casting doubt on a start in the Stradbroke because the horse has been allocated topweight of 58.5kg.

 

CHAMPION ZAC & ‘AUSSIE’ TOM UNDER FIRE OVER RIDES IN HONKERS G1

SPEAKING of bad rides – punters who watched the win by Voyage Bubble in the Champions and Chater Cup at Hong Kong on Sunday could not believe how rival jockeys handed the feature to James McDonald on a platter.

Voyage Bubble’s surge to a fifth Group 1 success and a Triple Crown clean sweep was amazingly aided by the tactics adopted by champion jockey Zac Purton (Ensued) and Tom Marquand (Dubai Honour).

Aussie punters who watched the race, LGHR included, question whether Purton and Marquand gave their mounts every chance of winning the race.

Dubai Honour was seen as a genuine threat to the hot favourite Voyage Bubble having raced well in Australia and Hong Kong. He was coming off two good runs in Sydney and rather than contest the QE11 Cup this year, British trainer William Haggas chose the Champions and Chater Cup over the 2400m.

The HK Stewards’ Panel, headed by Marc Van Gestel, certainly weren’t asleep at the wheel and inquired into the tactics adopted by Purton and Macquand. Here are their reports:

WHEN questioned regarding his riding Purton stated that he had anticipated holding a handy position. He said after being checked at the start when crowded his mount settled further back in the field than intended. He said with the early stages of the event being run outside of standard time he elected to commence a forward move from the 1200m as ENSUED is a one-paced horse that requires momentum and he was confident with the horse’s ability to run out a strong 2400ms. He added after improving to the outside of DUBAI HONOUR near the 1100m that runner held its position to his inside and when ENSUED was unable to cross DUBAI HONOUR he was obliged to race wide and without cover thereafter. When questioned if there was an opportunity to endeavour to obtain a position behind DUBAI HONOUR when unable to cross that runner Z Purton stated that as his mount requires momentum in its races he felt this was not in the best interests of the horse to ride it in this manner. After considering his explanation the Stewards found the tactics adopted by Jockey Purton were reasonable in the circumstances.

When questioned Marquand stated that after holding an on-pace position in the early stages, when ENSUED improved to his outside leaving the 1100m he was content to allow that runner to cross him at that point. He said when ENSUED did not continue forward of his mount this resulted in DUBAI HONOUR racing keenly despite his efforts to restrain his mount to come back which resulted in a fast pace being set from that point. He added that in the home straight DUBAI HONOUR continued to respond to his riding and in the circumstances he was not disappointed with the horse’s performance.

Aussie ‘Tom’ might have been satisfied with the run, punters who backed Dubai Honour certainly weren’t with his ride. This wasn’t just a case of JMac being the best rider in the race. It was a case of them allowing him to pull their pants down.

 

IS THERE SOME GOOD NEWS ON THE HORIZON FOR JOSH FLEMING?

DON’T be surprised if some good news is about to break about Josh Fleming, the best race-caller in Queensland, who lost his job with SKY Channel in controversial circumstances.

LGHR understands that a TAB club with one of the best CEO's in south-east Queensland is considering creating a position for a popular racing identity with the talents of Josh.

It’s nice to know that race clubs still exist where you don’t have to suck up to them to survive, or write and comment on issues only when they want you to. Whatever happened to the days when the racing media in Queensland had some respect?

There are plenty of angry people who follow racing in the north over what happened to Josh Fleming and some of them don’t even know him. Karma will square up those who participated in or benefitted from his demise.

 

HERE’S HOPING RICHIE’S ASSESSMENT OF ANTINO WAS TONGUE-IN-CHEEK

LGHR was surprised that so many Queensland racegoers took the bait and got sucked in by the comments of ‘not so big anymore’ Richie Callander in his column on Racenet.

For those of you who won’t pay the subscription fee to read that website here is part of what Richie wrote that has upset so many:

‘I could not believe all the hype and fanfare coming out of Brisbane after Antino's Doomben Cup win on Saturday, but then I remembered it is State of Origin Week.

Queenslanders become a bit different during Origin week.

They run around the streets in maroon jerseys and think they can conquer the world. They are going to get beaten by at least 10 on Wednesday night and yet some in Antino country think they can win.

Antino went terrific in winning Saturday's race, but let's keep our feet on the ground and analyze the situation, let's try and take the maroon passion and fervor out of the chat.

Even my favourite Queensland racing commentator Bernadette Cooper shouted "Bring on the Cox Plate" as she crossed back to Sydney from the scene of the action.

I thought Strawberry Road and Vo Rogue were going to reappear out of the mist. But, no, that's like thinking Wally and Alfie will be coming back for Wednesday night.

Antino was good, very good and there is no harm in dreaming and aiming to run in the Cox Plate.

He donkey licked his rivals on Saturday and won by four lengths, but what did he beat? The opposition was nothing like taking on Via Sistina.

Pride Of Jenni was the genuine A-grader in the race, but she's not an A-grader anymore.

Fawkner Park ran second. Despite being a rising seven-year-old he has never been able to threaten in Group One company. The closest he came was in a six-horse field in this year's Ranvet where Via Sistina strolled home in first place and Lindermann finished second. Not quite Cox Plate form.

When he struck a genuine top-drawer race Fawkner Park finished eighth of 13 in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes at $26 and he should have been $126.

Kovalica finished third in the Doomben Cup on Saturday. His last win was two years ago in the Queensland Derby when he beat Fame. Fame has not finished in a place in any race since and 10 days ago he started at $61 when down the course to Liberami over 1800m at Flemington.

So, to sum up I don't want to downplay Antino's win and full marks to Tony Gollan and Blake Shinn, but hold fire all of you up north and take note what happens on Wednesday night because that is what it is going to be like for Antino in the Cox Plate.

EDITOR’S NOTE: If Antino was trained by Chris Waller would you have been so outspoken Richie? Come on mate you’re smarter than that. It was a Doomben Cup run in race record time, regardless of what he beat. Let’s wait and see what happens come Cox Plate time. At least from a proud Queensland point of view we have a legitimate chance in the best weight-for-age race in the world.

 

BIKINI GIRLS & CHINESE DRAGONS – CARNIVAL PROMOTIONAL NIGHTMARE

TIDBITS from CONTRIBUTORS concerning the WEEK THAT WAS in RACING:

ARCHIE of ASPLEY writes:

‘I decided to make a return visit to the races last Saturday to watch Pride of Jenni in the Doomben Cup. The size of the crowd amazed me – I can’t recall a worse one on a major Carnival Day. But what about the trackside promotions – bikini girls and a Chinese Dragon – wow that will really get them back through the gates?’

SAM from BRISBANE, a STAY at HOME PUNTER these days, sent this email:

‘CORPORATE bookies seem to rule the world in racing these days. With all their promotional gimmicks incentives to have a bet – like refunds if the one you back gets beaten – why can’t they find it in their hearts to pay a quarter of the odds for the place – like used to happen. What occurs now is daylight robbery.’

OUR old mate COL from TOWNSVILLE writes:

LOCAL racing has received a positive boost from the performance by Queensland-trained horses over the Doomben carnival. It was great to see Chris Munce and Kelly Schwida scoring doubles as well as the amazing win by Antino in the Doomben Cup. But I need for you to do me a favour. Ask Tony Gollan if Bailey can replace Cav as his tipster?’

PAUL from the GOLD COAST sent this email:

‘GOOD to see the new Gold Coast track perform much better on Friday night than it has been. There is still work on it that needs to be done. The kickback was still there albeit not as serious as before. And is it worth noting that most of the winners didn’t come from further back than fourth?’

SAM from the SUNSHINE COAST writes:

‘WITH rain forecast aren’t we lucky the Sunday meeting in Queensland this week is scheduled for Kilcoy, the Moonee Valley of the North. If it had been at the Sunny Coast they would already be looking at transferring it to the POLY track. Not that Kilcoy, in the eyes of most punters, is much better.’

 

LEVELTHE PLAYING FIELD: CLUBS URGED TO IMPOSE CORPORATE FEE ON VISITING ONLINE INTERSTATE BOOKIES - RQ NEEDS TO ACT NOW

IN a move aimed at restoring fairness and supporting local wagering operations, racing stakeholders are calling on clubs to introduce a $2,000 corporate fee per meeting for visiting online interstate bookmakers.

This proposed fee would apply to bookmakers operating remotely or on-course without holding a primary stand at the host club’s venue.

The initiative is being promoted as a way to level the playing field between Queensland-based bookmakers and interstate operators who leverage local meetings for profit without contributing meaningfully to the racing ecosystem.

Local bookmakers are subject to stringent licensing, operating costs, and community obligations — conditions not always mirrored by their interstate counterparts.

The suggested $2,000 corporate fee would act as a contribution toward club resources, event hosting costs, and infrastructure usage.

It also serves to discourage tax loopholes and selective participation by corporate bookies who benefit from Queensland’s racing industry without maintaining a consistent physical presence.

Many in the industry believe this measure would reinforce the importance of supporting local operators and ensure that clubs are better resourced to continue offering quality racing events.

Race clubs and Racing Queensland are now being urged to consider the policy formally to ensure fair competition, revenue sustainability, and long-term integrity within the industry.

THE Rules for ONCOURSE BOOKMAKING in QUEENSLAND currently prevent this $2,000 CORPORATE FEE from being implemented by clubs.

BR.14 (3): ALLOCATION of a Bookmaker’s Stand at a Licensed Venue

A licensed club must not charge a bookmaker a fee to carry on bookmaking at a licensed venue, EXCEPT that a CLUB may CHARGE A FEE that has been APPROVED by RACING QUEENSLAND.

It's just another loophole that the corporates are exploiting. This one  allows these interlopers from Victoria to encroach on their Queensland colleagues' operations and the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission can do nothing about it.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

QRIC responsibility is restricted to licensing of bookmakers and under the Racing Integrity Act 2016 there is no requirement for the bookmaker to reside in Queensland, but they must be present to stand at the race meeting.

Deputy Commissioner Kim Kelly has told LGHR that on-course stands operated by bookies at race meetings are managed through the Clubs and this is not a matter over which QRIC has any jurisdiction.

Racing Queensland or the Racing Minister Kim Mander needs to address this issue ASAP to ensure it is a level playing field for local bookies who are doing it tough enough battling the corporates as it is.

LGHR understands that clubs are prepared to support the locals and impose the $2,000 corporate fee on Victorian visitors currently exploiting the rules. The matter is also being raised with the Independent Review into the Three Codes of Racing in Queensland.

Why wait? The rocket-scientists at Racing Queensland simply need to change their Rules to allow Race Clubs to charge the $2,000 fee. They have the power to act now. It’s as simple as that!

 

THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE UGLY SIDE OF THE QLD WINTER CARNIVAL

THE main event is yet to be run but fans have already been exposed to the good, the bad and the ugly side of the Queensland Winter Carnival.

What a shame there weren’t more racegoers trackside to see the amazing effort of new local superstar Antino in arguably the best win in the history of the Group 1 Doomben Cup.

The ecstasy of the Antino success story sadly saw the agony of defeat for champion mare Pride Of Jenni whose connections need to accept she has nothing left to prove and should now be retired.

Even trainer Ciaron Maher, gob-smocked by the performance of Antino, conceded Pride of Jenni was ‘disappointing’. She was gone on the home turn, dropped out to finish 12^th (11 lengths behind Antino, a rival she had beaten on many occasions).

Plenty of champions have won the Doomben Cup since it was first run in 1933 including Bernborough (1946), Bore Head (1967), triple hero Rough Habit (1991-93), Caulfield-Melbourne Cup champion Might & Power (1997) and seven length victor Zaaki (2021).

Not only was the effort of Antino the equal of those greats but he bettered the Doomben Cup record of 2:01:06, stopping the clock at 2:00.88. And that was on a track that had been subjected to rain during the week before it was upgraded to a Good 4 on the day.

 

ATTENTION BRC: WE HAVE A PROBLEM THAT NEEDS URGENT ATTENTION

BRISBANE racing has a major problem when it struggles on a Group 1 Winter Carnival day to attract a crowd as big as that which turned out for the meeting at the Gold Coast the previous night.

The big test comes on Stradbroke Day, which not long ago would see Eagle Farm packed to the rafters with close to 20,000 fans. One wonders if that is simply a pipe-dream these days.

If a champion like Pride of Jenni can attract only a few thousand to Doomben for her re-match with Queensland’s new star galloper Antino, what does the Brisbane Racing Club have to do to reignite interest from racegoers.

They can blame the economic climate, live broadcasts on SKY Channel and the Seven Network, or licensed clubs for stealing their crowds. Why wouldn’t you want to go to your local, they’ll even pick you up and drop you back home, charge you nothing to get through the door and the booze and food is nothing like the prices charged at the track?

Respectfully, those excuses are lame. The Gold Coast doesn’t have trouble attracting massive crowds on Magic Millions Day and expect close to 20,000 to turn out for Ipswich Cup Day where once LGHR can remember the mainsteam racing media being instructed not to release the figure if it was more than that attracted to the Stradbroke for fear of embarrassing the BRC/QTC.

Here’s what a couple of our readers had to say about the situation:

GREG from BRISBANE:

‘I might be living in the past but when the likes of David Laing, Roy Beckermann and the late Brian Murphy were CEO’s at Eagle Farm and Doomben things were done differently and they didn’t need big promotional teams or consultants to attract crowds. The problem today is the appointment of too many decision-makers in racing with corporate bookmaking backgrounds or media experience. What the BRC needs are people with a strong business and marketing background who know how to promote and grow a leisure business in the current climate.’

And JENNY from HENDRA:

‘ALL they seem to be worried about at the BRC is outside investments, and I commend them for what they have down at and near the track, but this 'build it and they will come' approach is made for the movies. A new grandstand for the Members isn’t the answer. Perhaps they should take some advice from Racing NSW where The Everest has brought a lost generation back to the track or Racing Victoria where the Melbourne Cup Carnival continues to attract the crowds it did long before SKY Channel arrived. With all due respects, it’s time they put a new broom through the place and head-hunted some young, enthusiastic business brains with a love for racing, instead of punting them off the Board if they disagreed with those running the show to suit their personal interests and others who have been employed as a reward for services rendered in the media in a bygone era.’

 

‘DR TURF’ DECLARES RACING VICTORIA ‘CLOWN SHOW’ OVER SACKINGS

SPORT commentator John Rothfield (better known as DR TURF) has slammed Racing Victoria’s decision to axe on-air media talent in a cost-cutting move that brings the curtain down on Terry Bailey’s race-calling career.

DANNY RUSSELL reports for FAIRFAX MEDIA that Racing Victoria sacked 15 per cent of its administration and media workforce this week as the industry continues to deal with an $11.8 million financial year loss and falling wagering profits - down 5 per cent on the past financial year.

Two inside sources not qualified to speak on behalf of Racing Victoria said Bailey, the State’s No.2 caller behind Matt Hill, was told on Tuesday he would no longer call races for Racing.com.

The sources said other names to be leaving Racing.com included trackside presenter James Tzaferis and reporter Ben Sporle.

Editor-in-chief and general manager of content Paul Tatnell has announced his departure via social media.

Rothfield lashed out after news of the cuts spread this week, saying good, talented people had paid the price for “third-rate executives endorsed by a self-interested board”.

“What a clown show Racing Victoria is,” Dr Turf posted on X.

“Set fire to $90m in prize money hikes and the disastrous ASM [All-Star Mile] then slash and burn, call it a ‘restructure’ and hope that no one will notice.”

While Racing Victoria declined to name those who had lost their jobs this week, it confirmed the cuts to this masthead.

“The Racing Victoria executive team has undertaken a comprehensive review of the structure, resources and operations of the RV Group over recent months,” Racing Victoria said in a statement.

“As a result, a number of roles across all levels and divisions of the RV Group, including the recently integrated RV-owned media businesses, will not be a part of the future structure.”

Dr Turf, who has worked as a panellist on Racing.com’s Saturday Contenders, doubled down on his criticism of Racing Victoria this week on his regular podcast, The Bald and The Beautiful, with Richmond legend Kevin Bartlett.

“I don’t want to talk about the amateurish, appalling administration of racing in this state and the media platforms such as RSN and Racing.com and the ineptitude that oversees them,” Dr Turf said.

“I don’t want to go there, Kevin. I don’t want to talk about these no-hopers. They are totally out of their depth.

“They are not capable of taking racing forward into the 21st century, and we’re stuck with them.

“But I don’t want to talk about them, Kevin. I don’t want to denigrate them or suggest that I’m not fully behind them.”

When pushed further by Bartlett, Dr Turf said racing was in a “precarious state”.

“It’s a shit show, Racing Victoria. It’s an absolute shit show,” he said.

Racing Victoria indicated late last year the industry aimed to save $10 million over the next 12 months by streamlining its media businesses as well as reviewing race programming.

Racing.com staff were moved from their Docklands office back to Racing Victoria’s Flemington headquarters. Racing.com CEO Peter Campbell’s position was made redundant and RV appointed former Entain (Ladbrokes) media strategist Andy Hoad as executive general manager of media, content and marketing.

The changes also saw RSN CEO Bernard Saundry step down. He is now chairman of Harness Racing Victoria.

“We recognise that this is a tough time for those whose role is no longer required,” Racing Victoria said.

“These are people who have given great service to the RV Group and the Victorian racing industry.

“We thank them for their service and will continue to support them as they transition to their next career move, including via our employee assistance program.

“Ultimately, this restructure is designed to place the RV Group, and thereafter the broader industry, on more stable footing to address the current challenges.”

The industry’s racing radio station, Racing & Sport Network (RSN), was unaffected by this week’s cuts as it continues to service three codes – gallops, harness and greyhounds.

But, as reported by this masthead in March, SEN chief Craig Hutchison has been circling to take over the struggling station, which lost its $3 million annual TAB sponsorship in August last year.

Changes continue to sweep the racing industry since the COVID bubble burst and sent wagering turnover spiralling back to pre-COVID levels.

Former CEO Andrew Jones was brought into Racing Victoria as an agent of change in July 2022, but he upset traditionalists with haste to introduce innovations such as interactive jockey earpieces and relaxed dress codes as well as announcing minor prizemoney cuts for the 2023/24 season.

Jonathan Munz, chairman of the Thoroughbred Racehorse Owners Association, repeatedly called for Jones to be sacked.

Munz’s owners association also called a special general meeting in February 2024 in a failed attempt to spill the industry board because directors continued to back Jones.

Jones later resigned, as did his executives Ben Amarfio and Matt Welsh.

 

VICTORIAN BOOKIES ENCROACH ON QUEENLAND TURF – THOSE AT THE COALFACE REVEAL HOW THIS IS STIRRING DISCONTENT IN QBA RANKS

A growing presence of online Victorian bookmakers at Queensland racetracks is causing ripples of discontent within the Queensland Bookmakers’ Association (QBA), with several members voicing frustration over perceived inaction from the top.

The issue centres on increased digital operations and on-course visibility from southern-based operators, which many Queensland bookmakers see as a direct threat to their market share and long-term viability. The situation has reportedly intensified over recent months, with Victorian entities gaining more ground at key Queensland meetings.

Several QBA members are now openly pointing the finger at the Association’s Pesident accusing him of failing to act swiftly or forcefully enough to defend local bookmakers’ interests.

“This should have been nipped in the bud months ago,” one senior member told LGHR. “Instead, we’re watching our own patch get swallowed while we wait for a response.”

Adding fuel to the fire, concerns are now being raised over whether these interstate operators are using their on-course presence in Queensland to exploit potential tax loopholes or facilitate credit betting practices that would otherwise face stricter scrutiny.

Members are demanding clarity on the regulatory boundaries being tested and questioning whether the integrity of the Queensland wagering environment is being compromised.

In response, Queensland bookmakers are calling on local race clubs to take a stand by ensuring that all on-course bookmakers are Queensland-based. Furthermore, they are urging clubs to require that any bookmaker with an online arm have that operation based and licensed within Queensland. The push is aimed at protecting the local industry, preserving state tax revenue, and ensuring fair regulatory oversight.

With unrest growing and confidence wavering, pressure is mounting on both QBA leadership and race clubs to take decisive action in defence of Queensland bookmakers.

QRIC RESPONSE TO CONCERNS EXPRESSED BY QLD BOOKMAKERS

DEPUTY QRIC COMMISSIONER KIM KELLY has been kind enough to respond to the above which reads:

QRIC’s remit extends only to the licensing of bookmakers.

To stand on-course at a race meeting in Queensland a bookmaker must be licensed. In accordance with the Racing Integrity Act 2016 there is no requirement for the bookmaker to reside in Queensland, but they must be present to stand at the race meeting.

On-course stands held by the bookmakers at race meetings are managed through the Clubs and is not a matter over which QRIC has jurisdiction.

For your reference and that of your readers, please find below the relevant extract from the Rules of Betting: -

 

ROSEHILL – THE JURY IS OUT – RUN TO THE ‘ROSES’ MORE LIKE ‘ASHES’

HERE’S the latest from regular contributor PETER MAIR on the shambolic situation the proposed sale of ROSEHILL racecourse has reached:

‘THE run for Rosehill, roses or ashes, is nearing the post: a 'no' vote would likely be a blessed relief.

Beyond that, 'what's next?' depends on a verdict being validated by the Parliament. Post-mortem findings would be controversial. The Parliament, as a whole, probably remains uneasy with the shambles that unfolded.

Fndings of an earlier Parliamentary Inquiry were brushed aside. The Government conceded only a vague proposal for the racing legislation to be reviewed. Even so, the Government acknowledged the Legislative Council had the option of holding to its preference for a further inquiry into the racing industry. Other states would be wary of a NSW Inquiry, inevitably with national implications.

Brinkmanship is in the air.

The run for Rosehill has been unsettling. Unusually, with voting well underway, a false start was declared. The (truly?) co-operating connections of BuyerSeller, having baulked at the likely outcome, demanded a reset. The course was lengthened. The ATC jury was given a longer form-guide, with confronting and questionable additions.

Whatever, the race has resumed. Connections of BuyerSeller took the opportunity to substitute a more aggressive rider carrying less dead-weight when given clearer riding instructions. The 'who' now calling the BS shots in this race has not been disclosed. They will be.

The connections of SaveRosehill, apparently well in front before the race restarted, took the disappointment stoically and remounted.

…......... stand-by for the photo of the finish.’

 

TOM MOXON STEPS INTO HOT SEAT AS CHAIRMAN OF NSW STEWARDS

IN announcing the appointment of Tom Moxon as Chairman of Stewards, Racing NSW CEO Peter V’landys – arguably the most powerful identity in Australian sport, has given out-going Steve Railton the ultimate compliment.

“Steve Railton is a Group 1 human being and has provided diligent and conscientious service to the racing industry throughout his distinguished career,” Mr V’landys AM said.

“Steve has made a significant contribution to Racing NSW during his tenure as Chairman of Stewards, and we are delighted that he will remain involved in a key mentorship role to continue to provide his experience to the broader integrity team.”

One wonders if Bob the Builder, who was Chairman of the RQ Board that punted Railton, choked on his corn flakes when he read what PVL had to say.

Moxon takes over as Chairman of NSW Steward from June 1. He brings over 20 years of experience to the role, having served under previous Chairmen of Stewards Ray Murrihy, Marc Van Gestel and more recently as the Deputy Chairman of Stewards to Steve Railton since November 2022.

“Tom is a highly respected figure within the industry and has demonstrated outstanding leadership throughout his tenure with Racing NSW,” V’Landys said.

“His appointment ensures continuity and strong oversight in maintaining the high level of integrity that Racing NSW prides itself on, being the benchmark in world racing.”

Moxon responded: “I’m immensely honoured to be appointed as Chairman of Stewards and look forward to continuing Racing NSW’s commitment to integrity, safety, welfare and the protection of all racing participants.”

Railton will continue with Racing NSW in a senior capacity which will include remotely officiating race meetings via the new Stewards Control Room at Royal Randwick. Through this new function, Railton will be able to provide mentorship and support to the Stewards Panel across NSW.

IT’S a tough task ahead for the new Chief Steward at Racing NSW with punters low on confidence concerning action taken against some top jockeys after continuing poor rides on heavily-backed favorites and a belief, also shared by some stakeholders, that some leading trainers are considered ‘untouchable’.

 

WILL PRIDE OF JENNI PROVE BLOCKBUSTER DRAWCARD AT DOOMBEN?

LOYAL racegoers, who have continued to attend the Queensland Winter Carnival for more years than they care to remember, have described the crowd on Doomben 10,000 Day as one of the worst ever.

The mainstream racing media ‘spin doctors’ spared the Brisbane Racing Club of embarrassment and even officialdom conveniently failed to post a crowd figure which is traditionally elasticised.

It was left to the ‘Archie’s’ to steal the spotlight with Sunshine In Paris in the Group 1 feature, ridden by JMac who wound up on the end of must punter anger for his ride on favourite Belle Detelle in the Rough Habit Plate won in a form reversal by stablemate and roughie Imperialist (nothing new for the Chris Waller stable).

Hometown hero Rothfire almost scored a 10,000 boilover for the Rob Heathcote stable with even McDonald admitting he thought the local had him in trouble until the last few strides.

No-one was cheering louder for Rothfire than his breeder, Wally Gleeson, who was in line for a massive bonus. It would have been interesting to see whether the BRC would have invited Gleeson to join the owners for a celebratory drink had Rothfire won in view of his outspokenness over those AGM Minutes which they continue to refuse to release a draft of.

One of our readers provided interesting food for thought when he suggested that the BRC might have attracted a few thousand more to 10,000 Day had they invited the Fred Brophy Boxing Troupe to perform between races.

‘Fred could have made Broncos star Reece Walsh his main attraction, walking the platform in front of his trackside tent and inviting all-comers. Some of the drunken ferals, pretending to be punters, could have taken him on and gone home worse for wear with the lifetime memory that ‘Cheeky Reecey’ knocked them out on 10,000 Day 2025.'

But looking forward the Winter Carnival does have a blockbuster Doomben Cup drawcard this Saturday in champion mare Pride of Jenni. She may not be racing as well as when she scored a freakish win that will never be forgotten in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes over a year ago but it’s a chance for locals to see her in the flesh.

The jury is out on Pride of Jenni brought back from retirement after her flop in the Australian Cup to win the Listed Anniversary Vase at Caulfield three weeks ago. The rivals she beat that day would be long odds in the Doomben Cup where she has a rematch with old rival Antonito whose last start win in the Hollindale Cup was amazing but is clouded by the ploughed paddock conditions on the day.

Champion trainer Ciaron Maher wouldn’t be telling proud and outspoken owner Tony Ottobre and his family to invite 40 of their friends to fly north for the Doomben Cup if he didn’t think Pride Of Jenni was a big chance of winning another Group 1.

Trainer Tony Gollan, whose stable is hosting his main rival whilst in Queensland, has warned punters that this is not a two-horse race. Bookies have Antonito an easing $3.6 favourite with Pride Of Jenni at $4.2. Next in the market are Fawkner Park at $8, Lindermann at $9 and Eliyass at $10. The latter duo went woeful at the Gold Coast but the track was arguably unfit for racing that day so expect some major form reversals out of the meeting.

Before we get to 10,000 Day there’s the much-anticipated Gold Coast night fixture on Friday featuring a $1 million Magic Millions Two-Year-Old race.

The GCTC has taken a massive gamble and will emerge heroes or villains after this meeting which has the potential to prove a major embarrassment for the Winter Carnival.

The rocket-scientists running racing on the tourist strip have decided to dispense with the services of track experts from Racing Queensland and sent an SOS to the super professional Evergreen Turf hoping they can convert a ploughed pig-sty into a silk purse in the space of a fortnight. It requires a minor miracle. Here's hoping they made the right move!

 

WHICH ON-AIR HOSTS & SENIOR RACECALLER HAS RACING.COM AXED?

PUNTERS are waiting to see which of their on-air favourites are among surprise mass sackings at Victorian broadcaster, Racing.com.

Following hot on the heels of the purge at SKY Channel, several on and off air identities are said to be victims of what Racing Victoria is calling ‘a major restructure’.

Major scalp is reportedly Paul Tatnell, Racing.com’s Editor-In-Chief and General Manager of Content for six years, who informed staff on Tuesday that he would be leaving his position this week.

Those at the coalface describe this as the most significant departure from the revamped Racing Victoria media business since the appointment of Andy Hoad As General Manager – Media, Content and Marketing in March. Ironically, Tatnell is rumoured to have applied for that role but was unsuccessful.

LGHR understands that among the dozen or so to be sacked are several prominent on-air presenters including a senior race-caller. Staff has been told there are some shows that will be axed.

Racing Victoria has blamed the mass sackings on a decline in wagering revenue. They say the Executive Team has undertaken a comprehensive review of the structure, resources and operations over recent months.

The review has been focused on ensuring that the RV Group’s operating model is efficient in the face of current challenges and future financial uncertainty, as well as properly aligned to deliver on strategic objectives.

Along with a decline in wagering revenue, the RV Group has experienced changes to its previous funding model and ongoing pressure on operational costs.

RV, which incurred a net deficit of $11.4 million last year and is expected to suffer a further five per cent fall in wagering revenue this year, claims the Review culminated in “a restructure and refinement of the business to best align the RV Group’s resourcing with its strategic objectives”.

As a result, a number of roles across all levels and divisions of the RV Group, including the recently integrated RV-owned media businesses, will NOT be a part of the future structure.

 

THE GREYHOUNDS FASTER THAN THE GALLOPERS ON & OFF THE TRACK

IT would seem that on and off the track the greyhound industry moves much faster than their big brother colleagues at the gallops.

Following the quick and unexpected exit of Peter Gleeson, the media identity with close ties to the LNP Government, the Queensland Greyhound Racing Club has wasted no time in appointing a replacement CEO.

The Greyhound Recorder reports that the man credited with bringing the wildly successful The Phoenix concept to life is the new boss of the Queensland Greyhound Racing Club in time for the official opening of new The Q complex.

Ashley Baker, who steered premier venue The Meadows between 2019 and 2021, will take the reins of QGRC which manages racing at the new state-of-the-art The Q three-track complex at Purga. LGHR understand from greyhound identities who would know that Gleeson recommended his replacement.

For Victorian-based Baker, the announcement prompts a return to the greyhound racing fold, having departed The Meadows in the aftermath of the inaugural – and hugely successful – The Phoenix in December, 2021.

“The opportunity to lead the QGRC and help shape the future of greyhound racing in Queensland is incredibly exciting,” Baker told the Recorder.

Regarded universally as the most exciting job in greyhound racing, Baker understands the enormity and importance of the task at hand, ensuring The Q realises all of its potential, both on and off the track.

“There's no doubt that The Q is one of the most ambitious projects we've seen in Australian greyhound racing. Our goal is to make it a hub not just for racing, but for community engagement and industry growth.”

Baker, who before his time at The Meadows enjoyed stints with both the Victorian Office of Racing and Werribee Racing Club, is the current CEO of VFL Club Williamstown Seagulls.

“Sport and racing have always been at the heart of my professional journey,” Baker said. “Coming into this role, I bring a deep respect for the industry and a commitment to innovation and integrity. I am truly excited to be able to contribute to this wonderful industry again."

THE appointment of Ashley Baker as CEO at The Q has raised questions from stakeholders about what has happened to the high profile racing official they now call ‘the Loch Ness Monster’.

 

NEED FOR NEW BLOOD AT RQ & HOW MUCH LONER WILL THIS TAKE?

DOES Ashley Baker’s arrival bring an end to the secondment of Jason Scott, who has resigned from his role as CEO at Racing Queensland and will he return there to serve out the reminder of his notice – which has to be one of the biggest in Australian racing history.

There is still no news on the hunt for a replacement for Scott but most stakeholders are adamant they don’t want Lachlan Murray, the Chief Financial and Strategy Officer, who has been acting CEO to get the gig permanently.

The need for change administratively at RQ needs to be heeded by the Labor-appointed RQ Board which will remain in place until the conclusion of the LNP Government-ordered Independent Review into the Three Codes. That suggests to LGHR that the Board in its current form could have a short lifeline.

Bosses of the Queensland Trainers’ Association have resigned in recent times citing un unworkable relationship with Racing Queensland. That won’t change – and it has to for the sake of the industry in general – unless there is change at the top.

There are also calls for RQ to look away from backgrounds in the corporate bookmaker section when finding a replacement CEO. Both Scott and Murray worked in that field. Stakeholders and the racing public believe corporate bookies have too much say in the workings of Australian racing and continue to call for a National Tote to combat this infringement.

 

BOUQUETS AND BRICKBATS FROM ‘OUR MAN GREG’ ON THE ‘GOLDIE’

GREG BLANCHARD, our regular Gold Coast contributor, adds to this week’s offering:

‘BOUQUETS to Racing Minister Tim Mander’s Office for replying on most occasions to my emails and phone calls on concerning issues in the industry.

I realize how busy they are but now hold out hope for changes that are desperately needed in Queensland racing.

BRICKBATS this week to those who promised Mauritius lad Prinish that would be an apprentice here.

This young bloke has been in Rockhampton for nearly two years (a  track rider  for over a year of that time). I've been in his corner knowing full well he could not be an apprentice in Queensland.

Anyone who googles ‘ABC overseas riders in Rockhampton 2023’: will see an article there part of which involves Prinish. The good news is he has an opportunity to fulfil his riding and apprenticeship dreams in NSW.’

 

THERE’S NOWHERE TO HIDE FOR GOLD COAST AFTER FRIDAY NIGHT

THE mail is strong that if the Gold Coast provides another track surface fiasco at Friday night’s meeting, pressure is on Racing Queensland to have the turf closed until the problem can be rectified.

The well-informed Richie Callander reported in his column for Racenet this week:

IT was a wet track for Saturday's Doomben 10,000 meeting, but it was nothing like the circuit presented at the Gold Coast the previous week.

The Gold Coast track is causing the club and Racing Queensland nightmares as the complaints don't seem to stop.

I am talking about the ‘GRASS' track as the polytrack is just fine. Ha ha …

Behind the scenes, the rumblings over the Gold Coast's poor-performing track continue to worry the club and I hear the committee – following discussions with some disgruntled trainers, jockeys and owners – has decided it's time they take matters into their own hands.

The feeling from behind closed doors on the Gold Coast is if they are going to cop the blame, they need to have control of the decisions being made.

With that in mind, the Gold Coast Turf Club will move away from the maintenance advice of Racing Queensland and is set to link with the team from Evergreen Turf, who came to the rescue for the club earlier this year following vandalism to the track in the lead-up to the Magic Millions.

LGHR understands that the GCTC already has Evergreen Turf on-site in a desperate bid to ensure the track plays fairly – nothing like the debacle of the Hollindale Stakes meeting when it resembled a ploughed paddock – when a $1mn Magic Millions Two-Year-Old race is run on Friday night.

Hopefully the weather Gods will be on their side this time and the forecast looks promising but if there is a problem with the track too difficult to fix in the interim then it should be closed and the repair cost borne by the GCTC (seeing they want to go it alone) and not the racing industry as a whole.

One critic of the club suggested: ‘If the good old boys running the show worried more about the track than entertaining their copper mates who helped bring down that decision of vandalism some time back, they might get their priorities in order.’

LGHR has no idea what this guy is talking about. The investigation carried out by the police was thorough and relied on a report from a turf scientist who declared part of the track had been poisoned. The only cloud over the entire thing was the abandoning of the investigation almost as quickly as it began with police declaring those responsible could not be identified. It was still 'hot' before it became a 'cold' case.

 

FRESH APPROACH FROM QRIC TO 'PLEASE EXPLAIN' FROM PUNTERS

INTERESTING email from ‘Bill from Breakfast Creek’ which we publish because QRIC were asked if they wished to comment and unlike the days of Commissioner Shane Gillard who got a response from Kim Kelly.

We preface this email with a disclaimer that LGHR does not agree with some of the content and published it out of public interest:

‘BILL’ writes:

‘Just an interesting observation but I was wondering why one of Brisbane’s leading bookmakers continued to lay Belle Detelle in the last at Doomben. A quick check with his bagman and he declared ‘we have a big slow on it.’ Stablemate got the money at any old price…hmmm.’

(LGHR is not suggesting anything untoward from the Chris Waller stable or that Belle Detelle did not try in the last. But these major upsets from second string runners are commonplace and we felt in the interest of punters stewards should be asked if the stable indicated a change in tactics for the $61 winner Imperialist or the way the favorite and stablemate Belle Detelle was ridden by James McDonald which punters have complained made its task near on impossible.

Here is the reply we received from Kim Kelly and we thank him for the new transparency from QRIC since Commissioner Gillard fell on his sword and left the building.

‘I can confirm that the Chris Waller stable formally notified the Stewards of a change of tactics for Imperialist (NZ) prior to that horse competing in the HKJC World Pool Rough Habit Plate at Doomben racecourse last Saturday.

In accordance with established practice, the intended change of tactics was disseminated to the public via the on-course broadcaster and was released by the Stewards on ‘X’ (formerly ‘Twitter’). QRIC Stewards routinely release necessary information via these means

Further, the intended change of tactics was noted in the Stewards’ Report from the relevant race meeting for the information of the industry and public as follows: -

IMPERIALIST (NZ) – Connections advised of a change of tactics in that IMPERIALIST (NZ) would attempt to settle more forward. Ridden accordingly.

Following the race, the Stewards interviewed the stable representative regarding what the Panel considered to be an improvement in performance which required explanation. This is also done in accordance with establish practice. Accordingly, the following also appeared in the Steward’s Report from last Saturday’s meeting: -

IMPERIALIST (NZ) – When questioned regarding the improved performance of IMPERIALIST (NZ) stable representative B. Killian commented that he attributed the improvement to the removal of blinkers which allowed the gelding to settle in the run, rather than over-race as it did at its last start. 

In respect of the performance of Belle Detelle, it is noteworthy that the horse finished in 6th position, beaten just under three lengths after over-racing in the early and middle stages. Given the circumstances of the race and having regard to the manner in which the horse finished the race off, the Panel was not of the view that the performance could be considered as disappointing.  

 I trust this information is of assistance to your readers in respect of the stated matter.’