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.