The Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association would like to congratulate Campbell Newman and the LNP on their resounding victory in tonight’s Queensland Government election.
“This could only be a positive move for the breeding and racing industry,” said TBQA President, Basil Nolan.
“We have had numerous deputations with the former Shadow Minister for Racing, Tim Nicholls with positive results, along with very pleasing correspondence with the new Queensland Premier – Campbell Newman himself – in the lead up to this election.”
Mr Nolan said the LNP was always very receptive to the TBQA view points and he is confident a positive partnership will be formed between the Breeders and the new Government.
“They’ve already outlined a commitment to increase prizemoney for racing,” said Mr Nolan.
“Of course we want to see a much bigger slice of the pie for our industry, but this is a step in the right direction and I am confident our concerns will at least be listened to by the LNP.”
The structure of Racing Queensland Limited and the ramifications of that will also remain under the close watch of the TBQA President and Committee.
“We all need to regroup and work together for the betterment of racing,” Mr Nolan stated.
“This will only occur if all racing groups are one force – there is strength in unity and that is what we must work towards now.”
The other major issue the TBQA will continue to fight for is a moratorium on coal seam gas and mining encroachment on prime agriculture and breeding land.
While not going as far as endorsing a moratorium on CSG and mining, the LNP has promised planning reforms and more extensive consultation in threatened areas, particularly the Scenic Rim and Darling Downs.
“These areas are crucial for the livelihoods of the majority of Queensland’s breeders and we must continue the pressure to save them.”
Mr Nolan plans to meet with the relevant representatives of the new Government as soon as the dust settles on the election.
“The TBQA will hit the ground running, we know what our industry needs and we want to see some of these measures implemented as soon as possible, while we continue to work for further improvements,” said Mr Nolan adamantly.
“Now let’s see exactly what the LNP Can Do for racing.”
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