Premier

Funding Boost To Enhance Integrity In Harness Racing

15 September 2017

The Andrews Labor Government has announced $3.1 million for Harness Racing Victoria to strengthen its testing regime to stamp out performance-enhancing substances in harness racing.

Minister for Racing Martin Pakula today visited the Geelong Harness Racing Club at Beckley Park to announce
the funding from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund.

The grant will enable Harness Racing Victoria to more than double the number of tests over the next two years, including post-race swabs, out-of-competition testing and human samples.

Protecting the integrity of Victoria’s harness racing industry is essential. The industry generates almost $422 million annually for the Victorian economy and helps sustain more than 3900 full-time jobs and 18,000 participants are directly involved as a breeder, owner, trainer, employee or volunteer.

The latest grant builds on the Labor Government’s previous integrity initiatives, including $1.6 million for Racing Analytical Services Limited to purchase sophisticated new machinery for drug screening analysis.

Since December 2014, the Labor Government has provided more than $10 million to assist Harness Racing Victoria and its clubs to improve racing and training facilities, upgrade public amenities, and support harness racing race day attractions.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula

“This funding will help to ensure Harness Racing Victoria has the resources it needs to stamp out prohibited substances and stay one step ahead of emerging drug tends.”

“Integrity in racing is vital, and this funding will significantly bolster the drug screening program in harness racing.”

Quotes attributable to CEO for Harness Racing Victoria David Martin

“Harness Racing Victoria thanks the Victorian Government for its support to boost our integrity efforts.”

“It cannot be overstated how important integrity is within racing. This funding will enable us to double the number of swabs analysed each year, and further strengthen our ability to maintain a level playing field for all participants.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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