New national strategy set to give gallopers happy lives in retirement

A comprehensive new strategy to further bed down the thoroughbred racing industry’s commitment to whole-of-life care for retired gallopers is set to be released as early as next year. 

Racing Australia, with funding from AgriFutures Australia, has revealed a landmark national research initiative to help assess the demand for retired thoroughbreds, with a view to developing an extensive strategy to support their transition into second careers and long-term homes. 

The strategy is aimed at ensuring horses are supported well beyond their time on the racetrack. 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. 

It is expected to further enhance the established support network, including Racing WA’s Off The Track program that supports and promotes retired thoroughbreds and standardbreds in their second careers as companion, pleasure or performance horses. 

“Racing WA is already committed to ensuring whole-of-life care for retired racehorses,” Racing WA Chief Racing Officer David Hunter said. 

“But we also support any initiative aimed at enhancing this support and the formation of this national strategy, that will put everyone in the industry on the same page, can only be a positive. 

“Our racing animals get the very best of care during their careers on the track. They provide great joy and excitement for their connections and so they also deserve to be treated in the best possible way during retirement.” 

The key objectives of the new project include:  

• Assessing current and projected demand for retired thoroughbreds across Australia. 

• Identifying key industries, disciplines and communities that engage with ex-racehorses. 

• Analysing the supply-demand balance and potential barriers to successful rehoming. 

• Engaging with stakeholders nationwide to inform evidence-based solutions; and 

• Developing of a National Thoroughbred Aftercare Demand Strategy. 

The project is supported by a diverse group of partners who combine scientific expertise with practical experience. It is led by Dr Natasha Hamilton from the Equine Genetics Research Centre, while other contributors include academic specialists from Hartpury University in the United Kingdom and the University of Sydney, in addition to independent welfare experts and representatives from the Principal Racing Authorities within each State. 

 An industry steering committee will provide guidance to ensure the outcomes are both effective and practical. The interdisciplinary collaboration will ensure the strategy is grounded in rigorous research and informed by real-world application. 

“This research represents a significant step forward in our understanding of the post-racing landscape for thoroughbreds,” Dr Hamilton said. 

“By taking a holistic view of demand, we can better align industry efforts, resources and retraining initiatives to improve outcomes for retired thoroughbreds across the country.” 

AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Program Manager Caitlin Smith said rural industries had long recognised the value of thoroughbreds beyond their racing and breeding careers. 

“This project not only reinforces their role in regional and rural Australia, but also lays the foundation for a coordinated, strategic approach to thoroughbred aftercare, which is vital for the sustainability of the industry,” she said. 

“Our program of research supports investment across four priority areas. One of these priorities is thoroughbred horse welfare, workforce safety and environmental sustainability - and that’s exactly where this project fits in.” 

The research will incorporate national surveys, stakeholder interviews and in-depth data analysis to help build a robust understanding of market trends and community needs. 

The resulting National Strategy will be designed to guide industry investment, policy development, education programs and stakeholder collaboration. It will ultimately support, inform and complement the work already being done by the individual Principal Racing Authorities, such as Racing WA. 

The National Strategy is expected to be released early next year.