ATA SA BRANCH AGM

On Tuesday 7th September 2010 the SA branch held its AGM in the Diva Room at Morphettville Racecourse. The meeting was well attended by about 30 members and guests. The association thanks representatives from the AEC, TRSA Ltd and the SAJC Inc for their time on the day.

It has been reported that some trainers claim they didn’t know until after the event that the AGM was on last Tuesday 7th September 2010. The AGM is held in early September every year and notification is always in the August edition of ‘The Races’ magazine as it was indeed this year on page 59 (1/2 page ad). Notice of meeting posters were also placed around the training precinct at Morphettville Racecourse and the Trainers Bar at Morphettville on Irish Race day. Trainers/members mark your diaries for early September 2011 and watch out for the notice in the August 2011 edition of ‘The Races’.

CO-OPERATION SOUGHT FROM TRAINERS

With the recent deaths of 2 horses in road accidents, the association reminds members of their responsibilities regarding Hi-Vis clothing, strips on rugs etc during early morning trackwork. Chairman of Stewards, Graham Loch, has assured us his panel will be on the look out for trainers not following the rules re this equipment.

Mr Loch has also asked us to inform trainers that clerks of the course have been instructed to have trainers comply with the rule regarding horses being in the mounting yard 15 minutes before the advertised starting time of the race. This applies to all horses unless permission has been otherwise granted by the stewards.

STOCKWHIPS

A reminder that on 1st August 2009, the use of stock whips was banned absolutely for use in the industry. All trainers should note that this includes the use of a stockwhip in any capacity whatsoever on any horse in the care of a trainer or on any property in the control of a trainer as well as on any training facility under the control of a registered Club. There are no exceptions to this rule.

APPRENTICE WAGE REVIEW

TRSA Ltd has engaged a consultant to review the apprentice minimum wage schedule and employment agreement. This is to ensure that the industry responds appropriately to the government’s fair work standards.

GAWLER TRACK REOPENING

Gawler and Barossa Jockey Club opened their new track on Wednesday 14th July 2010. Heavy overnight rain put a slight dampener on the proceedings but SA Branch member, David Aldridge provided the opening winner on the new surface with Brinkley Bullet saluting in the first race.