I would like to commence this column with congratulations to Queensland racing identities Hoss and Gillian Heinrich on their magnificent win in the Magic Millions Two Year Old Classic. Military Rose is an outstanding filly, and the manner in which she streeted her opposition in this high quality race promises well for her upcoming campaign in Sydney. Queensland cheered home Phelan Ready in last year’s Golden Slipper, after that horse had also won the Magic Millions Classic. Perhaps we can make it a unique double for the Sunshine State this year.

There is no doubt the year has begun in very interesting fashion in Queensland with the proposal to unite the three codes of racing - thoroughbreds, harness and greyhounds, under one administrative body. I am sure there is a lot of policy yet to be worked out, but the in-principal agreement for the merger to occur is a very promising start. I do believe it this is a very positive move and will provide a major boost in funding for all participants. One of the most important objectives of the QROA is increased prizemoney and better racing conditions for owners, and the cash injection promised by the Queensland Government would help this along.

Another great initiative for 2010 has been the new QROA website, the development of which has been overseen by our dynamic Gold Coast-based QROA committee member Grant Morgan. This website has received many favourable comments from our members, and is updated with industry news and events on a regular basis. If you have not already visited this state-of-the-art website, I do recommend it to you.

The QROA is your association and we welcome your communications and involvement. You will be aware that the QROA has been talking to Paul Brennan and Wade Birch about issues raised by our members. One of the concerns was what would happen in the likelihood of a failure of the flood lights during a race at either Toowoomba or the Sunshine Coast. Paul Brennan has given details of emergency lighting procedures for Clifford Park and Corbould Park. His letter and attached document can be read on the QROA website.

Other issues which we are currently addressing are requirements for barrier trials, and track conditions and ratings. Another important programme is the development of an owner/trainer agreement which is a proposed contract between owners and trainers so that both parties are clear about their obligations.

Grant Morgan and I were privileged to attend the opening of the new grass track at Rockhampton at the end of January. We thoroughly enjoyed the day and send congratulations to all concerned. The track played very well and the racing was first class. Rockhampton is a very important racing centre and the upgrading of the track is a very positive move for Central

Queensland.

Well-known racing personality Kerrina King has joined the QROA Committee. Kerrina has an impressive resume in racing administration and ownership and will be a valuable asset to the QROA, and I am very pleased to welcome her to our committee.

Your committee is a diverse group of members with wide experience and we take our role of improving the racing industry for the benefit of owners very seriously.

One of our proudest achievements is the roll out of the Owners’ Card and this is scheduled for further refining in the new racing season. Card holders will be pleased to note that the Toowoomba Turf Club is offering full facilities, whereas previously there were restrictions to entry to the Members’ area. The TTC committee has advised that holders of the current Owners’ Card will be welcome to access Clifford Park Racecourse, and have complimentary admittance to the Weetwood Members’
Area, regardless of whether or not they have a horse racing on the day.

As with all other participating clubs, exceptions to this will apply on feature race days where the Owners’ Card is not able to be used. I should also remind card holders that access to the club members’ car parks is not included in the entitlements.