The King Island Racing Club is pressing ahead with plans for its upcoming racing season following the disappointment of the abandoned 2025/26 campaign.

Club President Audrey Hamer and her committee are now working proactively to attract both local participants and mainland trainers in a bid to deliver a successful season, scheduled to run from December through to the end of January.

“After a year without racing, we’re committed to bringing back a strong, sustainable season for our community, our trainers, and everyone who loves King Island racing,” Hamer said.

To ensure the season proceeds, TasRacing has set minimum field requirements of five races per meeting, with at least five runners per race, covering both thoroughbred and harness events.

TasRacing will support the season with a $600 per horse transport subsidy, along with prizemoney of $3,400 for thoroughbred races and $3,600 for harness races.

In addition, the club will bolster each race with a $2,000 bonus and offer incentive payments of up to $2,000 per horse for those travelling to the island.

For mainland trainers, the club is currently negotiating sea transport from Port Welshpool in Victoria.

“We are looking at securing a set crossing date between mid and late November,” Hamer added, noting that horses, floats, caravans and associated equipment can all be transported together.

Tasmanian-based trainers will have access to regular sailings from Stanley in the state’s North West, with services operating twice weekly.

Facilities on the island include paddocks and stabling to accommodate visiting horses.

The club will host an information meeting for local trainers and interested participants on March 29 at the King Island Hotel, commencing at 4pm.

Off-island trainers are asked to provide an indication of interest by April 22, allowing sufficient time for travel arrangements to be finalised.

Beyond racing, King Island offers a renowned lifestyle experience, with its hospitality, premium produce—including fine cheeses and beef—alongside world-class golf courses, and excellent swimming and diving locations, making it an appealing summer destination.

For further information, trainers and interested parties can email kingislandracingclub@gmail.com or visit the club’s Facebook page. Hamer and her team are available to assist with any enquiries or travel arrangements.

With a proud history spanning 134 years, the message is clear—let’s bring racing back to King Island.