Ladbrokes Gets Behind Racing in North Queensland

Ladbrokes Australia has cemented its position as the major supporter of racing in Queensland today announcing ground-breaking new sponsorship deals with thoroughbred racing clubs in Townsville, Mackay and Cairns.

The landmark deals follow-on from Ladbrokes' multi-year commitment as the major backer of the Brisbane Racing Club and Albion Park Harness Racing Club. 

As the part of the sponsorship agreement which encompasses Townsville Turf Club, Cairns Jockey Club and Mackay Turf Club the respective racecourses will be rebranded as Ladbrokes Ooralea Park in Mackay, Ladbrokes Cannon Park in Cairns and Ladbrokes Cluden Park in Townsville.

Ladbrokes will also become the naming rights partner of the majority of the region’s feature races including the Ladbrokes Newmarket in Cairns, the Ladbrokes Mackay Cup Carnival and Ladbrokes Mackay Cup, and the Ladbrokes Townsville Cup Carnival and Ladbrokes Townsville Cup.

“North Queensland has a rich racing heritage and a strong network of clubs and participants, but it has been somewhat neglected in recent times,” Ladbrokes Australia CEO Dean Shannon.

“The Ladbrokes team is keen to really work with these clubs to help energise the racing offering in North Queensland, not just through their key carnivals but on an ongoing basis.

“We are thrilled to get a deal done with Townsville, Mackay and Cairns and excited about some of the initiatives they have in the pipeline.”

Racing Queensland CEO Jason Scott welcomed Ladbrokes increased investment in Queensland.

“It’s pleasing to see Ladbrokes expand its footprint into North Queensland and to partner with three of our biggest regional clubs,” Racing Queensland CEO Jason Scott said.

“On an annual basis, Townsville, Mackay and Cairns host more than 75 meetings, showcasing everything that is great about racing in the Sunshine State.

“With the Northern Carnival rapidly approaching, Ladbrokes’ presence is sure to be warmly received by our clubs, participants and punters alike.”

Townsville Turf Club Chairman, Malcolm Petrofski, said the new deals represented a landmark moment for racing in Queensland’s north.

“Cluden Park is excited to partner with global wagering provider Entain through their Ladbrokes brand,” Mr Petrofski said.

“Their investment in not only our Club, but neighbouring Cairns and Mackay Clubs is set to take racing in North Queensland to the next level.  

“Ladbrokes's originality and enthusiasm will put our product at the forefront of racing content and we look forward to working with them in this new phase for racing in North Queensland. We are thrilled that Ladbrokes want to be part of our community and there are some exciting things coming around Winter Racing Carnival that will further entrench that.”

Cairns Jockey Club GM Cameron Riches said: “The Cairns Jockey Club is excited by our newly formed partnership with Ladbrokes along with the Townsville and Mackay Turf Clubs. 

“It serves to sustain and improve the racing experience at what will become Ladbrokes Cannon Park and strengthens not only our respective brands individually, but the entirety of racing as a whole in North Queensland.”

Mackay Turf Club chairman John Philips said: “Mackay Turf Club is excited to welcome Ladbrokes on board as the Clubs major sponsor from 1 July.  

“A number of changes and improvements to our Winter Carnival are already in progress and the Club is looking forward to working closely with Ladbrokes to continually improve and develop the race day experience of our members and patrons.”

Main Picture: (Left-to-Right) Rebecca Stynes (Ladbrokes Head of Partnerships), Natalie Rintala (Cluden Park General Manager), Malcolm Petrofski (Townsville Turf Club Chairman), Karl deKroo (Ladbrokes Director of Stakeholder Engagement), John Philips (Mackay Turf Club President), Cameron Riches (Cairns Jockey Club General Manager).