What’s happening?
The Rockhampton Jockey Club (RJC) has introduced the Stay in Rocky Incentive (SIRI) scheme, offering up to 40% discounts on track and stable fees to encourage trainers to race their horses locally at Callaghan Park. The initiative runs from 1 March to 30 June 2025 as a trial.
Why it matters?
With a congested TAB racing calendar in Central Queensland, many local horses travel frequently to race in Mackay, Townsville, and regional tracks, leading to smaller fields and reduced wagering at Callaghan Park. The SIRI scheme is designed to ease this strain by incentivising trainers to race locally more often, ensuring stronger field sizes and increased local wagering turnover.
Local Impact
- Trainers who choose Callaghan Park as their primary racing venue will significantly cut down on travel costs.
- Larger trainer teams could save thousands in fees each month.
- The scheme strengthens Rockhampton’s reputation as a key racing hub in Central Queensland.
By the Numbers
- Up to 40% discount for trainers who race exclusively at Callaghan Park.
- 30% discount for those with 90% of their starters at Callaghan Park.
- 20% and 10% discounts for those with 80% and 70% of their starters, respectively.
- Trainers fielding under 70% of their starters at Callaghan Park will not receive a discount.
Zoom In
“This initiative is about rewarding trainers for their loyalty to Callaghan Park,” said RJC chairman Rob Carr. “We would love to see all local trainers select us as their first-choice track so we can then reward them.”
Zoom Out
Rockhampton is home to one of the busiest racing circuits in regional Queensland, with frequent TAB meetings attracting both local and travelling trainers. However, with increasing competition from other regional tracks, ensuring strong local participation is key to maintaining racing viability in Rockhampton.
What to Look for Next?
- Trial period results: The RJC will review the impact of the SIRI scheme after 30 June 2025 to determine if it should be extended or adjusted.
- Trainer participation trends: Whether local trainers increase their Callaghan Park racing commitments in response to the incentives.
