The Gold Coast Turf Club has received an important update in relation to the investigation surrounding the damaged course proper.
Spray nozzles, mixing equipment and footprints were found in the area where the damage occurred. Police are continuing their investigation in relation to the incident.
“We’re awaiting an independent report from leading agronomist company Easton Turf, who has been up to take samples of the damaged turf, but it’s looking more and more a case of vandalism,” said GCTC Chairman Brett Cook.
“We know the spray nozzles aren’t ours because they’re plastic and we use brass.
“Easton Turf has seen a number of similar cases in the past and has spoken with the investigating police.
“If it does turn out to be a deliberate act, which is looking increasingly likely, we’re very disappointed with a narrative that has come out suggesting it was some sort of mistake on our part.”
Remediation works to repair the affected section of the Gold Coast Turf Club course proper are continuing.
The club has engaged a number of specialists to assist with the operation including respected track manager Liam O’Keefe, who has had experience with similar repair works at Flemington, as well as turf experts.
Special machinery was also mobilised to arrive on the Gold Coast on Sunday to assist.
Once repair works have been completed, senior jockeys will gallop horses over the course proper on Thursday to further assess the condition of the track.
Based on the advice of experts, the club is hopeful of a positive outcome with the remediation works in the lead-up to Saturday’s The Star Gold Coast Magic Millions Raceday.
Contingency plans are also being discussed should the meeting not be able to proceed as planned on the Gold Coast.
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