Queanbeyan racecourse Crown land back under Racing NSW control

Racing NSW has regained control as Crown land manager of Queanbeyan racecourse after a state government review saw its initial appointment revoked in mid-2025.

Queanbeyan was one of five racecourses for which Racing NSW was granted Crown land management (CLM) rights in 2024, the others being Armidale, Coffs Harbour, Inverell and Port Macquarie.

However, the Queanbeyan arrangement was placed under review after concerns raised by board members in 2023 were not properly dealt with by the state department responsible for approving the CLM application.

Administrator Simon Spicer was appointed as Crown land manager last year but control returned to Racing NSW on July 1, as confirmed by an announcement from NSW Crown Lands.

“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,” the announcement said.

“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.”

As well as overseeing the care, control and management of the racecourse reserve, Spicer reviewed all user agreements, including leases and licences, and was tasked with identifying and addressing compliance issues, as well as governance and financial matters related to the Crown land management.

The announcement backed Racing NSW to continue this approach as it resumes its role as manager of the 46-hectare site.

“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,” it said.

“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 announcement said the appointment will ensure racing and training activities will continue at Queanbeyan, with the next race meeting scheduled for September 8.

“(The racecourse) plays an important role in delivering social, economic, cultural, and recreational benefits for the local community, under lawful, transparent and accountable management,” it said.

There had been calls last year for a review into the Crown Land management of Coffs Harbour, but those were dismissed by NSW Minister for Lands and Property Stephen Kamper, who found no grounds for an assessment.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey also said in March 2025 that there was no proposal from Racing NSW to seek freehold title over any of the five racecourses.

“The government knows well what a precious asset the Crown estate is. For this reason, Crown land is generally not sold,” he said.