Harness Racing NSW has announced help for participants affected by the recent storms and floods in the Hunter Valley.
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The state authority said they would implement measures this week with CEO John Dumesny to chair an emergency meeting on Wednesday.
“The board will consider the situation at Wednesday’s meeting and plan to help those affected will then be acted upon,” Dumesny said.
“I have been in contact with a number of trainers and it is very sad to hear what some of them having been dealing with since the early part of this week.”
Dumesny said it has been both tragic and heart warming to hear the stories of devastation and community spirit from the Hunter, including Louth Park which remains flooded.
“I have spoken with Barry Matterson, his training track has been cut in half, Paul Carmody told me that the only dry place on his property is where his house stands,” he said.
“I would like to congratulate Kenny Smith who has been a shining light for people in the Louth Park area, he has been assisting anybody and everybody that needs it, ensuring people cut-off by the flood are receiving supplies.”
The biggest concern for many participants will be the lack of food for horses once the water subsides.
“Understandably trainers are worried because all of their feed has been lost so we will be helping to provide those people with assistance,” Dumesny said.
“The extent of the devastation is not only confined to those suffering from the floods, the strong winds and rain itself caused substantial damage in areas other than the floodplain.”