Go West subsidy scheme amendments

Racing Queensland will provide opportunities for more jockeys to access its Go West subsidy scheme. 

In July 2023, RQ introduced the subsidy scheme in an endeavour to address the jockey shortage in the North West, offsetting costs for riders flying to the region from other parts of Queensland.

Under the initial scheme, RQ subsidised up to two return flights (to a maximum of $1,200 each) to each Non-TAB race meeting; and up to three return flights (to a maximum of $800 each) to each TAB meeting.

The new scheme will see RQ subsidise up to four flights (to a maximum of $800 each) to each Non-TAB and TAB race meeting in the North West region.

Venues include Mount Isa, Cloncurry, Julia Creek, Richmond, Hughenden, Corfield, Stamford, McKinlay and Winton.

This subsidy will commence from the Mount Isa meeting on March 8, and remain in place until July 1, 2025.

To be eligible for the subsidy, a jockey must have a minimum of three rides confirmed for the race meeting at jockey declarations. 

Jockeys are required to register for the scheme via email to gwc@racingqueensland.com.au. RQ will advise the result of each application via return email. 

There is no capped limit on the number of race meetings that a jockey can register and be subsequently approved for the travel subsidy.

RQ will advise trainers on the availability of jockeys prior to declarations for the respective race meeting via text message.  

For further information, please contact gwc@queensland.com.au or David Horne 0410 633 217.

Additional conditions:

• No registrations accepted before 8.30am on the Monday three weeks prior to race day;
• Registrations will not be accepted via a third party.  Each jockey must register for themselves;
• Copies of invoices for the flights must be sent to gwc@racingqueensland.com.au for reimbursement to be made;
• RQ encourages jockeys to take out insurance on their flights. Should a meeting be abandoned prior to race day, flights will not be reimbursed; and
• If circumstances change and you can no longer attend the meeting, please advise RQ so that any jockeys on a waitlist can be accommodated.