3 minute read

The re-opening of the Beaudesert racecourse following extensive renovations could be delayed due to vandalism.

Vandals driving cars ripped up sections of the new grass track last week, threatening plans for a return to racing on January 28.

Beaudesert has been out of action for 12 months while a new grass track and 16m wide sand track were installed.

Officials fear the track damage will force a postponement of the January 28 meeting.

Portions of the course proper were ripped up by vandals driving a car and an area near the 1400m had diesel oil poured over it.

"It's hard to fathom why someone would want to do something like this in an area that relies so heavily on thoroughbred racing," Racing Queensland chairman Kevin Dixon said.

"We are hopeful it won't stop the grand opening, but it's now a matter of wait and see."

Horses trained out at Beaudesert have been having an excellent run with the training facilities described as the best in country Queensland.