THE Minister for Racing, Mr Peter Lawlor, must reign in Queensland Racing and encourage open and balanced negotiations to save Townsville Turf Club and one of their biggest race meets, the Townsville Amateurs.

Shadow Minister for Racing, Mr Ray Stevens said today in Parliament, that the reduction in funding for the Townsville Amateurs, from $225,000 to $120,000, and from two days to one day, is unfair and damaging to the local industry.

“Funding for the Townsville Amateurs should not be reduced, especially for their Centenary race meet this year.

“These negative tactics that Queensland Racing is using to reduce funding and force the Townsville Turf Club into giving their assets to Queensland Racing are nothing short of bully boy tactics.

“Minister Lawlor needs to rectify the situation as this only devalues Racing in Queensland.

“This bureaucratic interference by dictatorial means is not welcome by any club in the Racing industry in Queensland.

“The Townsville Turf Club deserve to be supported by the Minister, not ignored.

“I ask the Minister for Racing to take a long look at his portfolio responsibilities and do all he can to save the Townsville Turf Club and Townsville Amateurs in this their important centenary year”,  Mr Stevens concluded.

Media Contact: Mr Ray Stevens MP on 0417 750 503