Synthetic track material

In Queensland there are 132 race track facilities. Some of these facilities have multiple tracks and some only one track which is made of either turf or sand. These tracks are used for both training and racing of thoroughbred race horses and require substantial amounts of water for them to be safe for use. This maintenance is a daily requirement with some sites using as much as 2 mega litres of water a week. Synthetic tracks require no watering for their maintenance offering substantial water efficiency throughout Queensland. In order to minimize or completely eliminate the need for the use of water in the ‘Velvet' and similar horse training tracks across Queensland, the CEEFC proposes a replacement of the sand track with a synthetic track material, which does not require the consumption  of water for its services and maintenance. Importantly, the track will perform similarly if not more superior having due regard for water conservation, animal welfare and rider welfare.

Project partners

Queensland Racing Pty Ltd

CEEFC Project coordinator

Dr Francisco Cardona