As the spring carnival in Melbourne has come to an end, we all start to look towards the Magic Millions Carnival in January. Once again our local Queensland trainers have done us proud with Rob Heathcote, Liam Birchley, Tony Gollan and Danny Bougoure all having success on the biggest of stages, showing that our horses may be few in quantity but are not lacking in quality. As seen by the amount of overseas horses in the Melbourne Cup, getting a local Australia horse into the race is an effort in itself. The days of having a Queensland trained horse making the Cup Field are probably gone, but it won't stop every-one of our trainers from having that dream of being there on that first Tuesday in November.
ATA FEDERAL CONFERENCE AND AGM
The National Conference for the ATA was held in early November in Melbourne and was attended by our State Executive Cameron Partington. Having delegates from all states in attendance is a great opportunity to discuss issues and share ideas. The results of a recent external review that was conducted on the ATA, at request of the ATA, was high on the list of discussion. The review gave an insight into what service and assistance members felt they received from the ATA, and other information that we can use to be as beneficial as possible to our members. The AGM was also held for the Federal positions, and Colin Alderson was once again returned as President.
ATA QLD BRANCH QUARTERLY MEETING
Our next quarterly meeting will be held in January, date to be advised. 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.
2013 / 14 WAYNE WILSON MEDAL
The Wayne Wilson Medal has been won for the month of October by Rob Heathcote for his efforts in finally getting Group 1 success for his star sprinter BUFFERING. Winning the Manikato Stakes at Moonee Valley, BUFFERING by Mossman, surpassed the $3 Million mark in his 13th win from 39 starts. Rob is now in the running for the 2014 Royston Stud Wimmers Soft Drinks Wayne Wilson Medal.
The Wayne Wilson Medal 2013-14
August : John Manzelmann for his two stayers winning the 3 Cups in North Qld.
September : David Lawlor, 3 Saturday Metro wins in the month from 5 starters in the month.
October : Rob Heathcote, BUFFERING winning the G1 Manikato Stakes at Moonee Valley
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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.
