A trainer's move back to his hometown has been soured by failed track upgrades that have left him no choice but to cart his horses hundreds of kilometres for race meets.
Almost $1 million in taxpayers' money has been wasted on upgrades to an outback Queensland racetrack that remains unusable.Rain showed flaws in upgrade work as it damaged the track before the first race back could be heldIt is not expected to be ready for racing until at least November
The upgrades included a new inside running rail and a sprinkler system so the track could be watered remotely.The Charleville racetrack has been unusable since mid last year. Mayor, Shaun "Zoro" Radnedge said the council was lucky to realise the issues before it took over responsibility from project managers Racing Queensland.
No races have been held in Charleville since mid last year, with race days diverted to other nearby towns. Mr Radnedge said the council had been consulting with Racing Queensland and Racing Minister Grace Grace since the initial upgrades failed. In a statement, however, it said: "Following extensive testing and review, representatives from Racing Queensland, along with consultants and contractors met with key stakeholders, including club, council, trainers and jockeys, on site [on May 31] to finalise the scope of works in repairing the course proper for a return to racing.Ms Grace also declined an interview request but said in a statement she was aware of the issue.
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