RACING AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2025 9 trainer or trainer’s representative. The amendment to AR 223 clarifies that any relevant investigation or inquiry is not required to have commenced for prizemoney to be withheld. 9. Amendment of AR299 – Death of a Named Horse Removal of ambiguity as to who is the Authorised agent by inclusion of trainer. These rules represent the racing industries commitment to continual review and improvement of horse welfare, health and safety. Racing Australia in conjunction with the PRA’s will continue to review and, if appropriate, introduce rules that promote and improve racing. RESEARCH Racing Australia maintains a research and development fund specifically aimed at horse and participant welfare and safety. Projects are evaluated on an ongoing basis for their ability to deliver positive outcomes for welfare and safety. Racing Australia has engaged in two critical research projects over the period. Early Detection of Horses at Risk of Equine Musculoskeletal Injuries Racing Australia and Telemedvet have undertaken a 12-month project to perform a cross-sectional study of a serum biomarker in the clinical investigation of equine musculoskeletal injuries. This commitment may lead to real time capabilities that can aid in the prevention of injury to horse and jockey The aim of this project is to investigate the use of a serum bone biomarker called Osteocalcin (OC) as a predictor of equine lameness and fractures. The research project has recently successfully completed with positive outcomes. Assessment of the Demand for Retired Thoroughbreds in Australia Racing Australia funded by Agrifutures is undertaking a national research initiative to assess demand for retired Thoroughbreds and inform the development of a comprehensive strategy supporting their transition into second careers and long-term homes. This collaborative initiative reflects the Thoroughbred industry’s commitment to whole-of-life care for Thoroughbreds, ensuring horses are supported well beyond their time on the track. The research will explore the existing landscape and future opportunities for rehoming retired Thoroughbreds, drawing on insights from across the equestrian, recreational, agricultural, and therapeutic sectors. This research project is due to complete by June 2026. RACING AUSTRALIA BOARD During the year Racing Australia farewelled with thanks Board Members Mr Greg Nichols, Ms Nicolle RantanenReynolds and Ms Elizabeth Clarke and welcomed Mr Tim Eddy and Mr Les Boag. Racing Australia also saw Alternate Directors Mr Vaughn Lynch, Mr Ian Edwards, Mr Jason Scott and Mr Andrew O’Toole step down from their role and welcomed Alternate Directors Mr Nick Bawden, Mr David Hunter, Mr Lachlan Murray and Mr Darren Pearce. INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATION Racing Australia is a member of the following International Horse Racing Organisations: • Asian Racing Federation • International Federation Horseracing Authorities and has representation on the following International Committees: • Asian Racing Federation Executive Committee • Asian Racing Federation Drug Control Committee (DCC) • Asian Racing Federation Asian Pattern Committee • International Federation Horseracing Authorities Executive Committee • International Federation Horseracing Authorities Gene Council on Anti-Illegal Betting and Related Financial Crime (AIBRFC) • International Federation Horseracing Authorities Gene Doping Control Subcommittee • International Federation Horseracing Authorities Advisory Council on Equine Prohibited Substances & Practices (ACEPSP) • International Federation Horseracing Authorities Horse Welfare Committee (HWC) • International Federation Horseracing Authorities International Grading and Race Planning Advisory Committee (IRPAC) • International Federation Horseracing Authorities International Harmonisation of Racing Rules Committee (IHRRC) • International Federation Horseracing Authorities International Movement of Horses Committee (IMHC) • International Federation Horseracing Authorities Technical Advisory Council (TAC) • International Stud Book Committee • Asia and Oceania Stud Book Committee • International Stud Book Thoroughbred Breeding Welfare Standards Working Group • IHSC Gene Doping Expert Committee Participation in these organisations and Committees is imperative to ensure Australian Thoroughbred Racing stays abreast of improvements and developments in all aspects of racing and breeding as well as providing contributions and a voice as one of the largest racing jurisdictions in the world.
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