Racing Queensland has negotiated TAB coverage for country race meetings linked to iconic regional tourist events such as the Barcaldine Tree of Knowledge Festival and the Mt Isa Rodeo.

In a media statement RQ announced it would provide TAB opportunities to a further seven regional thoroughbred clubs, including national television coverage on Sky Racing.

The Birdsville Cup retains its status on the TAB circuit in September with the concept expanded across the state to include Barcaldine, Dalby, Emerald, Innisfail, Mount Isa, Warwick and Yeppoon.

“Racing plays an important role in regional communities right across Queensland and we're delighted to be able to showcase them in this manner,” RQ deputy chair Sharon Dawson said.

“By providing non-TAB clubs with TAB opportunities we are able to deliver increased prize money for participants, greater wagering returns back to the industry and can broadcast our regional clubs to national and international TV audiences.”

Emerald and Innisfail will trial mid-week timeslots on Sky Racing 1.