Paper Petition

The petition of the citizens of Queensland draws to the attention of the House the impending forced closure of Townsville’s North Queensland Harness Racing Club by the Queensland Harness Racing Board will see an end to what has been a traditionally popular social event in Townsville. The industry generates in excess of $2 million annually to the local economy, and the cancellation of the Club’s licence would not only have a detrimental effect across the north resulting in a loss of employment, but would also have a negative effect on support industries such as feed outlets, vets, transport, farriers and saddleries.

Your petitioners therefore request the House to support a 12 month extension on the current racing licence so as Townsville’s North Queensland Harness Racing Club can verify its own operational viability.