Stop the fireworks at the racecourse
Fireworks planned for the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Racecourse in mid-March for the local fair do not take into account the welfare of the young, highly strung racehorses stabled at the venue, who will have a direct and close view of the display.
Horses are prey animals with a strong fight-or-flight instinct. Sudden loud noises and bright flashes from fireworks can cause extreme fear and blind panic, leading horses to bolt, crash into fences, injure themselves, or harm handlers. The sight and sound of fireworks are not just startling — they can be genuinely traumatic for horses kept in close proximity.
Kalgoorlie does not have a dedicated equine veterinarian available locally. If a horse were seriously injured during a fireworks event, it would need to be transported long distances to Esperance or Perth for treatment, increasing risk, cost, and delay in urgent care.
A simple solution would be to relocate the fireworks further away from the racecourse so the noise and visual impact are reduced for the horses, while still allowing the public to enjoy the event. Alternatively, a drone light show could provide a safer, modern entertainment option without the same risk to animals.
Fireworks pose a significant and unnecessary hazard — not only to racehorses, but also to dogs and local wildlife. Subjecting animals to fear, stress, and potential injury purely for human entertainment is avoidable and should be reconsidered.
Crystal Burns Contact the author of the petition