June 13, 2017
The Australian Turf Club will trial later finishing times to morning trackwork sessions at its three training centres to allow trainers and stable staff more options around working hours.
After consultation with trainers at Royal Randwick, Rosehill Gardens and Warwick Farm, the ATC has decided to extend trackwork finishing times to 9.00am at Rosehill and Randwick, and 9.30am at Warwick Farm, starting on July 1.
The majority of trainers at all venues indicated that they did not support later starting times for trackwork sessions at this stage.
Australian Turf Club Executive General Manager of Racing Services and Membership James Heddo said the changes were in response to recent debate about the prospect of losing foreign workers under changes to the federal government’s 457 visa system.
“Whilst there isn’t widespread support for a later start, this trial acknowledges that the needs of trainers and their staff is changing and will still give trainers the option of allowing their staff and stables to start later and finish later in the morning if they desire.
“We will continue to monitor the trial and work with our trainers to ensure the optimum outcome for all participants.’’