June 4, 2020

The Australian Turf Club (ATC) has unveiled new state-of-the art Thermal Imaging camera technology at Royal Randwick as it prepares to welcome back patrons under strict NSW Government Public Health Orders.

The cameras are designed to detect an elevated body surface temperature (EBT) of on-course patrons beyond the normal 37.5 degrees Celsius. The world’s first installation at a racecourse is linked to the ATC’s existing facial recognition camera network.

The cameras use immediate heat detection sensors, and are believed to be the first to be introduced by an Australian sporting venue as part of the COVID-19 recovery response.

Purchased through EOS Australia with analytics managed by Samsung, the Thermal Imaging cameras form part of the overarching bio-security strategy by the Australian Turf Club for the safety and wellbeing of all participants and patrons when Government Public Health Orders allow patrons on-course.

Two cameras will be positioned at key entry points for raceday and events and will be monitored by licensed security trained in the use and function of Thermal Imaging technology.

Australian Turf Club Chief Executive Jamie Barkley said: “Sydney racing has lead the world in being able to continue during the pandemic.

“These cameras will enhance our biosecurity measures for everyone who steps on to our racecourses, as we continue to work with NSW Government in safely allowing Owners, Members and on-course spectators back to the races across coming weeks and months,” Mr Barkley said.

If an elevated temperature is detected that person will be denied entry and be moved to a separate area isolated from other people entering the venue and asked a series of questions by medical personnel. These patrons will then have their temperature re-tested. If their second temperature test is within acceptable limits of less than 37.5 degrees Celsius they will be permitted entry to the venue.