The Bundaberg Greyhound Racing Club is set to be converted to a sand track in 2024.
The works will see a new surface laid, as well as a repositioned 460-metre start and rail realignment to include transitions in and out of turns.
The conversion to a sand surface will provide for a more consistent surface, which has advantages for racing safety and track maintenance.
As a result, the works should ensure that Bundaberg can race on a weekly basis, while allowing for race meeting growth and the ability to host transferred meetings.
RQ will now work with the Club to finalise the scope of works, before the appointment of contractors in the New Year.
Works are expected to be completed in the second half of 2024 and will be undertaken to ensure minimal disruption to participants.
“Some of the world's most authoritative voices on track design and racing safety continue to inform the decision-making on greyhound track projects in Queensland,” RQ CEO Jason Scott said.
“With Queensland’s two-turn tracks all utilising a sand surface, including The Q which is presently under construction, the time is right to convert Bundaberg as well.
“Importantly, these works will also put the Club in a position to accommodate additional racing and trialing for an industry that continues to grow in the region.”
Following appropriate approvals and tendering, RQ will provide an updated project timeline, including race meeting relocation and any support arrangements for local trainers.
Over the past 18 months, the Club has also take receipt of a new judges’ and broadcast tower, as well as a new rail and lure system, new catching pen, fencing replacement, and the installation of new sectional timing system.
The new tower, which sits adjacent to the finishing line, now accommodates the lure driver, stewards, broadcaster, judge, photo-finish camera and broadcast camera.
“We have proudly remained the only grass circle track in Queensland, however we understand that for the future of the sport in the region, we need to bring Bundaberg in line with the other surfaces in Queensland,” Bundaberg Greyhound Racing Club President Stephen Bland said.
“A conversion to a sand surface is welcomed and we look forward to working with Racing Queensland in continuing our growth within the industry.
“In addition to the track and facility works undertaken by RQ, the club is proud to have invested in both an expansion of our racing kennels to cater for 12 races and a new fully air-conditioned and insulated trial kennel block, which can house 19 greyhounds.
“Finally, we have replaced the existing straight trial track with a new sand surface and security panel fencing to ensure the upmost safety of the greyhounds utilising it for training purposes.”