Jumps Racing: Select Committiee formed

As a result of the former State Liberal Government’s decision in 2000 to corporatise the three racing codes: harness racing, track (which includes horse racing on the flat and over jumps) and greyhound racing, the State Government has no control over their management.

Thoroughbred Racing SA is the controlling authority for the management of thoroughbred horse racing in South Australia and the decision to continue with jumps racing events in South Australia rests with them.

The Minister for Racing, Hon Leon Bignell MP, has encouraged Thoroughbred Racing SA to acknowledge the view of much of the wider community regarding jumps racing and to start phasing out the practice, and to reduce the number of races scheduled each year, beginning by ceasing jumps racing at Morphettville Racecourse.

The State Government is aware of growing unease within the community for the continuance of jumps racing in South Australia, and on 23 September 2015, it established a Parliamentary Select Committee to investigate whether or not jumps racing should continue to have a place in South Australia.

The Select Committee will consider the safety of horses and riders in jumps races; the potential economic impact of a state-wide ban on jumps races; and will enable the views of the racing industry, animal welfare organisations, and the wider community to be heard.

If you would like the Select Committee on Jumps Racing to be made aware of your views on the matter of jumps racing in South Australia, I encourage you to put your concerns in writing and forward them for consideration to the following address:

Ms Rachel Stone
Secretary
Select Committee on Jumps Racing
Parliament House
GPO Box 572
ADELAIDE SA 5001

Email:

rachel.stone@parliament.sa.gov.au

The Select Committee on Jumps Racing is anticipated to report to Parliament on 30 June 2016.

The Government of South Australia remains committed to ensuring everything is being done to minimise the risk to jockeys and horses.