Coronavirus: Victoria reverses Cox Plate decision to allow owners on course
A public backlash has forced the Andrews government to reverse a decision to allow 500 owners and connections of race horses to attend Saturday’s 100th Cox Plate.
A public backlash has forced the Andrews government to reverse a decision to allow 500 owners and connections of race horses to attend Saturday’s 100th Cox Plate.
Just three hours after announcing the decision to bend the coronavirus lockdown rules for the race, the government descended into chaos on Tuesday night amid a public outcry that pushed Racing Minister Martin Pakula to take to Twitter to announce the backflip.
“Tonight I’ve spoken to the Moonee Valley Racing Club and the decision’s been reversed. Owners won’t return to the race track until we reach the next stage of the easing of restrictions. I apologise for any upset that has been caused,” he tweeted.
The shambles unfolded after the decision to bend draconian coronavirus lockdown rules to allow 500 people to attend Saturday’s race sparked fury, with people citing ongoing restrictions for funerals, religious gatherings and a ban on grand final day gatherings.
“The decision to allow some owners on course for the 100th Cox Plate was motivated only by respect for the occasion and a desire to mark a small step on the path to reopening,” Mr Pakula said.
“It was a mistake, given that other restrictions remain in place, and we’ve heard the community feedback.”
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