The recent RQ thoroughbred board appointee Mr Jim Rundle lasted all of 3 days, which is yet another example of the apparent lack of care and concern being shown by the Government to our industry. For the record the ATA Qld was totally opposed to the appointment, and had released a media statement and advised the Minister to that effect. In addition to concerns with Mr Rundle’s suitability for this position, we fail to see how the Government arrived at a conclusion that his Queensland Trainers Association was a truly representative body for the Trainers of Qld.
The bare facts are that his trainer membership is regionally based and modest in number. Furthermore, the metropolitan and professional trainers in this State who are the lifeblood of our industry, employing most of the staff, racing most of the horses and contributing a massive share of the betting turnover that fuels the whole states viability, have no connection to Mr Rundle or his group. We can only hope that more foresight and industry consultation takes place prior to the next appointment to the Board.
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Dual acceptors has been a battle, but the end is near with the introduction of strict conditions set to commence on 1 July. There has been much negotiation between RQ and the ATA to allow the parties to reach a sensible outcome. I am sure trainers and owners are looking forward to its implementation.
The restrictions that will be in place, to be formally announced shortly, will ensure the quality of our fields and also that all horses are given the best possible chance to gain a start.
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THE WAYNE WILSON MEDAL
The 2016 Wayne Wilson Medal for the month of March has been won by Robert Heathcote for his champion BUFFERING taking on the world's best and winning. Travelling to the other side of the planet, tackling the endless challenges that brings with it, and beating the best in the world is truly a fantastic achievement.
To keep the rising 9yo gelding at his best, Rob and his team have done an amazing job. Having his 52nd race start BUFFERING notched up his 20th win in the Group 1 Al Quoz Sprint in Meydan, Dubai to etch his name in the history books of those few Australian horses who have won at the highest level overseas. The challenge now is in Hong Kong, and all of Australia will be cheering him on.
Rob adds another monthly award, and is in the running for the 2016 Wayne Wilson Medal proudly supported by Ubet and Wimmers Soft Drinks.
The Wayne Wilson Medal 2016
August : John, Dan & Chris Meagher - SHOTOVER RIVER 3 metropolitan wins in a row.
September : Brian Smith - LOCK'S LEGEND winning 4 Metro Open Handicaps in a row, 3 in the month.
October : Rob Heathcote - BUFFERING winning back to back Moir Stakes (G1) at Moonee Valley.
November : Pat Duff - STEEL ZIP winning the Keith Noud Hcp, making it 3 metropolitan wins in a row.
December : Kevin Kemp - SOLD FOR SONG winning the Gold Edition Plate Doomben.
January : Rex Lipp winning the Magic Millions Trophy (Stayers Cup) at the Gold Coast.
February : Lindsay Gough - RIGHT OR WRONG winning 3 Metropolitan races in a row.
March : Rob Heathcote with BUFFERING winning the G1 Al Quoz Sprint in Meydan, Dubai.
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Communication is very important to the ATA, and here in Qld we do our best to ensure information is passed on as often as possible. Cameron sends regular emails and SMS with latest news and issues, if you are currently not receiving these emails or SMS please make us aware by contacting Cameron at the email or phone below.
One of the major benefits of being a member of the ATA is having a support network to go to if you have problems or concerns. We can’t solve them all, but we will take your issue on board and try and negotiate on your behalf where we can. Whatever the problem contact us and we will at the least, point you in the right direction. If you are not a member yet, now is the right time to join. Call Cameron Partington on 0433-329-395 or email cam24.7@optusnet.com.au for further information about the Queensland Branch of the Australian Trainers Association.
