Budget boost for Capalaba dog racing

Racing Minister Grace Grace said greyhound clubs sharing in the funding in south-east Queensland also included  Bundaberg Greyhound Racing Club and Ipswich Greyhound Racing Club.

All up there was a $697,000 budget boost for thoroughbred racing in the south-east.

Racing Queensland chief executive Eliot Forbes said the process in distributing funding was detailed and collaborative to ensure fairness and a level playing field.

“Racing facilities were visited across the state with interviews conducted and venue assessment reports produced,” Dr Forbes said.

“We also consulted with industry stakeholders regarding club and industry infrastructure requirements as well as conducting analysis of previous club infrastructure investment to identify trends.”

A total of 15 clubs will share the $697,000 worth of infrastructure grants.

Ms Grace said the funding would result in upgraded facilities and infrastructure.

“I am pleased to be able to approve this funding program which will begin to address infrastructure requirements immediately with phase one to be completed within 18 months,” Ms Grace said.

“Our clubs in country and regional areas are a key part of their local economies while also providing a strong social connection. They need to be supported and I know these projects will make a difference to racing.”

Ms Grace said each submission was assessed for its ability to improve racing operations, enhance industry returns and deliver better workplace health and safety and animal welfare outcomes.

The Capalaba club also has just received a $15,000 grant to repair flood damage from ex-Cyclone Debbie.

Bowman MP Andrew Laming and Redland City councillor Paul Gleeson said the grant was election-eve pork barrelling although club acting manager Bob Patching said this was not true, with the money badly needed for repairs.

Mr Patching called on Mr Laming to have the federal government match the state grant.