Racing Victoria (RV) appointed Ms. Cara SHELLEY as a full-time Equine Welfare Officer to increase its commitment to horse welfare.

Ms Shelley will be responsible for the implementation and coordination of RV's equine welfare program which includes initiatives for the care, retraining and re-homing of former thoroughbred racehorses. Her commitments also include a program to provide racehorses with a formal pathway for life after racing, liaising with industry stakeholders on equine welfare and the management of data on injuries, retirements and stable departures in developing further welfare programs.

Mr. Paul BITTAR, RV Chief Strategy Officer said “The horses are the centrepiece of our industry and we are committed to ensuring that they are afforded the appropriate care and attention both during and after their racing life.”

The IFHA supports and encourages each and every horseracing authority to implement the best possible measures on horse welfare issues so that the racing industry would further establish solid and stable foothold in all jurisdictions.

Aki AKITANI (Deputy Secretary General)