Eagle Farm Surface to Be Scrutinized

In Queensland racing news, its state-based Australian Trainers' Association branch has met with Racing Queensland to discuss ongoing track issues. Chief amongst concerns were the hardness of the surface and kick-back. Some of Queensland Racing's leading names, including trainers Tony Gollan and Toby Edmonds voiced their concerns to RQ chief executive Brendan Parnell and tracks manager Greg Puckeridge, together with BRC chairman Neville Bell. Also present were top hoops Jim Byrne, Michael Rodd and Ben Thompson. ATA Queensland representative Cameron Partington was pleased with discussions, saying, "All the right people were in the room and we were happy that they responded to having the meeting and acknowledged there are some things that can be worked on at the track." He added, "The track was one of the most brilliant tracks in Australia for a long time and our goal is to see it back to that level." Racing Queensland's chief executive responded, "It's important that RQ and the BRC continue to engage with key stakeholders, including the trainers and jockeys, to ensure that the course proper is befitting of our major metropolitan track. Having listened to today's industry feedback, we will continue to refine our maintenance program to ensure the racing surface provides further cushioning ahead of the winter carnival. This includes further consultation in the lead up to and following our winter carnival to ensure that we are providing the best possible racing surface at Eagle Farm."