Paul Makin

Journalist

The Laura races is in its 126th year and is on the bucket list of things to do for many people each year. It’s well supported by racegoers and the racing fraternity from all over Queensland and the Douglas Shire, as they make the trek to the amphitheatre track near Cooktown.

Up until now the Jockeys, Horse Trainers and Stewards have all had to put up with what can only be described as spartan change and enquiry rooms. It was basically a tin shed that had a use by date stamped on the side. Now a new building with modern facilities is going up for the vital racing folk who support the meeting.

For example, over previous years the female Jockeys have had to share the change rooms with their male counterparts and that’s not ideal. Now both sexes will have their own private area. Stewards will also enjoy a brand-new room to sort out any protests on the day.

Laura Amateur Turf Club Secretary Jenni Sorensen has told Newsport it’s an upgrade that had to be carried out to bring this important meeting into the 21st Century. “Racing Queensland have helped us complete the whole thing and we’re very grateful to them and their continued support of this amazing date on the calendar” she said.

The club is also spending their own dollars in completing this project “Having facilities for the female Jockeys and Trainers is very important for the club because these wonderful women contribute so much to the success of the race day and need to be respected” Ms Sorensen said.