By: Press Release

Racing Australia and Thoroughbred Breeders Australia have been working together to provide clarification to the thoroughbred racing and breeding industry in respect of the new Rules of Racing relating to traceability. As a result of those discussions, the new Rules have been amended to clarify that the Stewards will only have access to studs and farms to test for anabolic androgenic steroids in young horses, prohibited substances in racehorses and to monitor the health and welfare of horses generally.

In light of this clarification, owners and breeders filing Foal Ownership Declarations (to the extent that they are not already bound by the Rules of Racing as a result of the lodgment of any other form, the making of any other declaration or the operation of any of the Rules), agree to be bound by the Rules of Racing which relate to welfare, traceability, banning of steroids and prohibited substances in racehorses. There will also be formed a Racing & Breeding Advisory Committee, with representatives from both racing and breeding, to consider issues concerning the thoroughbred racing and breeding industry as they arise in the future.

Racing NSW Chairman, Mr. John Messara AM, said:

“Integrity and a drug free racing environment is critical to the confidence of the public in the thoroughbred racing industry. Equally as important is ensuring the health and welfare of our horses. It is our aim that Australia has Rules of Racing that represent world’s best practice and address all of these issues.

These new Rules ensure that there is traceability of all thoroughbred horses from birth until they are rehomed when they are no longer involved in the thoroughbred racing industry.”

“It’s pleasing that the matter has finally been resolved with the TBA” he said.

Thoroughbred Breeders Australian Chairman, Mr. Basil Nolan, said:

“The Board of Thoroughbred Breeders Australia is pleased that we have come to an agreement with Racing Australia and I would say both parties have discussed our issues in good faith. We look forward to continuing this consultative relationship with the newly established Racing & Breeding Advisory Committee.”

“Everybody involved in racing and breeding knows that welfare is of paramount importance to what we do and I think all participants can take comfort from the fact the Australian industry is setting world’s best practice.”

“The amendments that Racing Australia has made to the Rules of Racing provide clarity to the breeding industry about the scope of the Rules and this is welcomed by Thoroughbred Breeders Australia.” Mr. Nolen concluded.