Tasracing will work closely with the Minister for Racing on the detail of a support package for the Tasmanian racing industry following today’s announcement that racing will cease for the next four weeks.
CEO Paul Eriksson said these details would be announced as soon as they were finalised.
“Many industry participants will be eligible for assistance measures already announced by the Tasmanian Government and the Commonwealth over recent weeks, both to businesses and individuals,” he said.
Mr Eriksson said he noted the Premier’s comments that the public health advice about the industry continuing to operate was clear, and while disappointed, the government had little choice but to follow that advice.
“Animal welfare will be a key issue for the industry to manage during this shutdown period,” he said.
“These racing animals are high-performance athletes and their care, exercising and maintenance is a 24 hour, 7 day a week task.
“Stopping racing does not remove this need. Reduced exercise regimes which this shut down will create will contribute to other issues upon a return to racing.
“It should be remembered that the cessation of racing is not just for the currently identified four week period – it will also include an extra four to 12 weeks to get racing animals back to racing condition.
“While race and trial meetings will be cancelled for at least the next four weeks, those industry participants who are essential for the welfare of racing animals will be able to continue their important work.”