On 26 June 2026, the NSW Government reappointed Racing NSW as Crown land manager of the Queanbeyan Racecourse Reserve under a strengthened statutory appointment.

The reappointment comes after the Government considered the report of the independent administrator, Simon Spicer, who was appointed in July 2025, to review the racecourse’s operations.

Racing NSW had identified and brought a number of compliance and management issues to Crown Lands’ attention after it was first appointed as Crown land manager of the racecourse in May 2024.

The administrator was tasked with reviewing the racecourse’s operations and his duties included:

  • overseeing the care, control and management of the reserve
  • reviewing all user agreements (including leases, licences and assignments) on the reserve in line with requirements of the Crown Land Management Act 2016 and clarifying ownership of any improvements
  • identifying and addressing any compliance issues
  • managing governance and financial aspects of the reserve.

As a public facility located on Crown land, it is important to ensure the racecourse meets legislative requirements, including planning and other regulations, to protect the public interest and ensure compliant and safe operations.

Racing NSW brings strong experience, specialised capability and resources to manage the racecourse’s assets and address the issues that have been identified at the site.

Governance and compliance issues will be addressed by Racing NSW with the backing of the NSW Government through clear, enforceable requirements set out in an updated Instrument of Appointment.

Crown Lands will continue to provide oversight and support to Racing NSW, including regular review meetings.

The appointment will ensure racing and training activities will continue at Queanbeyan Racecourse, which plays an important role in delivering social, economic, cultural, and recreational benefits for the local community, under lawful, transparent and accountable management. The next race meeting is scheduled for Tuesday 8 September 2026.