Jane Howlett,Minister for Racing
The Tasmanian Government is committed to assisting the State's racing industry bounce back from a very challenging period.
I am pleased to confirm Public Health officials have agreed on detailed COVID-safe plans for trials of all three racing codes to resume from Monday 18 May, which includes new operating procedures designed to limit COVID-19 infection risks.
Risk mitigation measures agreed on in the meeting yesterday I attended with Public Health and Tasracing include trials being conducted with fewer officials and participants, and strict social distancing rules in place.
Under the plan, trials will be able to commence at the following venues – Mowbray and Longford Racecourses in the State's North and Elwick Racecourse in Hobart, while track gallops and jump-outs will also proceed for thoroughbreds.
Today's announcement gives industry participants the chance to prepare their animals for a re-start of racing from 13 June and I hope the decision provides a much needed boost of confidence to the industry.
The Tasmanian Liberal Government is working hard to balance a health crisis and economic challenges, that's why we have provided unprecedented levels of support to business in Tasmania, including a $2 million a month package through TasRacing to assist the racing industry.
I will continue to work constructively with all three codes to see this important industry get back on track.
