Frustration continues with Eagle Farm remediation works on hold

MORE than four months after the last horse went across its maligned turf, the Eagle Farm turf looks as green as a billiard table, with remediation works yet to begin.

MORE than four months after the last horse went across its maligned turf, the Eagle Farm turf looks as green as a billiard table, with remediation works yet to begin.

Many trainers, already frustrated by not being able to use the surface for trackwork, fear there is little to no chance it will be ready in time for next year’s Winter Carnival.

But Racing Queensland reiterated this week that the projected date for a resumption remains April 2018.

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On Friday, representatives from RQ, the Brisbane Racing Club and independent soil experts inspected the selected turf, while RQ also locked in a contract for the supply of sand for the project.

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The sand will be blended with loam before being applied to the track profile.

After the original successful tenderer walked away from the project, RQ recently appointed the FKG Group to construct the Eagle Farm remediation and FKG will take possession of the site within seven days.

“It’s disappointing it’s taken this long to start work, but we also understand the most important thing is to get it right, so if that means it’s a couple of weeks later coming back, so be it,” Australian Trainer’s Association Queensland branch spokesman Cameron Partington said.

Leading trainer Rob Heathcote has been among the most frustrated trainers, pleading with RQ to provide more frequent updates.

“It’s been like sitting in an airplane on the tarmac for an hour and the pilot not saying a word,” he said.

Not a good look: Excessive turf kickback occurs on Kingsford Smith Cup Day in May. Picture: AAP

Cox takes on Godolphin role

MAGIC Millions managing director Vin Cox has won the coveted role to head up Godolphin’s Australian operation, replacing Henry Plumptre, who resigned two months ago.

Cox has been the head of Magic Millions since 2011. He will be replaced in the role by Barry Bowditch, who has been promoted from within the MM organisation.

The pair will start their respective new roles after January’s Gold Coast Magic Millions yearling sale.