The rain that has been hammering eastern-states all year continues to cause major problems for rural race courses.

Lismore Racecourse was closed after suffering drainage issues and further wet weather will keep the gates closed for at least a few more weeks.

“Weather permitting, contractors will re-commence works today with the objective of restoring the racing surface by the end of this week,” Lismore Turf Club Secretary/Manager Michael Timbrell said.

They are working tirelessly to try and bring the track up to standard but there’s simply only so much they can do while it’s still raining.

“An intensive management regime will then be implemented with a view to re-commencing racing as soon as possible,” Timbrell said.

Racing was scheduled to re-commence on April 30th but the Southern Cross University race day has now been cancelled.

Racing NSW will try and make up for the lost program by finding space later in the calendar.

A new opening date will also not be finalised until officials get an update on progress in the next couple of weeks.

“A further update on the condition of the track and its suitability for racing will be forthcoming in the first week of May,” Timbrell said.