Tasmanian race meetings and trials will be open to the general public from 12 noon today (26 June 2020) subject to complying with social distancing protocols and existing hygiene requirements.
Tasracing CEO Paul Eriksson said this was another important step forward for the industry that resumed racing on Sunday 14 June.
“Getting Tasmanians back to the races is important for the racing clubs,” he said.
“I would encourage everyone planning to attend a trial or race day to consider downloading the COVIDSafe app, and if you are feeling unwell to stay at home.
“Temperature testing will remain in place at the weekend and be phased out over the course of the next seven days.
“Social Distancing protocols will remain in place and be monitored closely in operational areas by Tasracing Track Marshalls.”
Mr Eriksson said criticism of Tasracing’s recent decision to increase stakes by three per cent needed context.
“The increase is sustainable and affordable and comes on top of nearly $4 million in support paid to racing participants while the industry was shut down,” he said.
“More broadly, since the 2016 stakes reset, stakes have increased by $4.27 million or 23 per cent, up from $18.34 million to $22.62 million.
“In 2021/22, we are expecting to be able to increase stakes by a further seven per cent or $1.6 million to $24.22 million.”
Mr Eriksson said Tasracing had significantly increased turnover on Tasmanian racing product to nearly $599 million in 2018/19.
“In 2011/12 turnover was just more than $375 million,” he said.
“While Tasracing has grown turnover on Tasmanian racing by 60 per cent, turnover on Australian racing has increased by 25 per cent.
“Tasracing has a sound, long-term strategy designed to grow stakes in a sustainable manner.
“Notwithstanding the recent COVID-19 issues, stakes and revenue growth outlined demonstrate our success in this important area of our business.”