CQ Racing has doubled in size and worth over the past decade!

Racing in Central Queensland has almost doubled in size and worth over a decade, according to Racing Queensland’s latest survey data.

A study of the industry undertaken by IER found that our region, which takes in 12 thoroughbred clubs including the CQ hub, Rockhampton’s Callaghan Park racing and training centre, generated $68.8 million in value-added contribution to the local economy in 2022-23. That represents a massive 92% increase since 2015.

The Racing Industry has over 3,000 participants in Central Queensland and supports over 510 full-time jobs in the region, up 72% since the previous survey 2015-16.

There are 1303 registered racehorse owners and 108 licensed trainers.

The one sparse area is the number of licensed jockeys. Rockhampton relies on jockeys and apprentices flying in from other regions, particularly the southeast to make up the numbers.

A survey of race meetings over 12 months saw almost 50,000 attendees, with CQ making up 6% of the total crowds at racecourses in Queensland.

Click here for the Central Queensland report

Click here for the Queensland report

David Aldred – CEO
Rockhampton Jockey Club