RQ confirm Eagle Farm revamp will go ahead

Sunday 9 February 2014, 5:31pm

Racing Queensland boss Darren Condon has reacted angrily to suggestions plans have been scrapped for the redevelopment of the Eagle Farm course proper.

A rumour the state government had refused to fund the much needed upgrade was rife in racing circles on Saturday, forcing Condon to dismiss the speculation.

RQ's chief executive confirmed work on the upgrade was likely to go ahead from July 1.

"It is the most idiotic rumour I have ever heard," Condon told AAP.

He said he had been swamped by industry figures asking about the claims and had fielded several phone calls while on a bike ride on Saturday morning.

Condon said the government had yet to confirm the financial support but had certainly not refused the application.

"We have been drawing up a new season racing calendar without Eagle Farm for nine months from July 1," he said.

"Everyone agrees the redevelopment is a must for not just Queensland but the Australian racing industry."

A government decision on funding is expected shortly.

Major work will also be undertaken at the provincial Ipswich track which has closed until April 23.

The course proper will undergo a $325,000 facelift which will enable the track, along with the Gold Coast and Caloundra, to handle more meetings when Eagle Farm is closed.

– AAP

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