Racing SA Introduces Drought Relief Package for Retired Thoroughbreds

Racing SA has introduced a drought relief assistance package aimed at supporting the care of retired thoroughbreds amid escalating feed costs and limited pasture availability due to ongoing drought conditions.

This initiative is designed for Racing SA-licensed participants, acknowledged re-trainers, and affiliated horse sanctuaries that provide direct care for retired thoroughbreds registered in South Australia.

Eligible applicants can receive funding of AUD$300 per thoroughbred, capped at AUD$6,000 per applicant.

Commenting on the initiative, Racing SA’si industry operations & welfare manager, John Cornell, said: “We know how tough the conditions are out there.”

“Despite a small amount of rain recently, there still isn’t much feed on the ground and the price of everything has gone up across the board.

“Not only is hay expensive, but it is difficult to source right now and in many instances, our participants are sourcing it from across the border.

“Thanks to a 1% deduction from prizemoney, Racing SA is in a position to support our licensed participants and retired South Australian thoroughbreds, and I encourage those experiencing hardship to apply for the drought relief support package.

“Applications go directly to our Thorough Care SA welfare team, who are ready to answer any questions.

“Our industry participants do an excellent job caring for thoroughbreds in retirement, and this is an opportunity to provide them with much-needed support,” Cornell said.

This financial support is strictly designated for the purchase of feed, hay, or silage.

To qualify for the assistance package, thoroughbreds must meet the following criteria:

• Be registered in South Australia
• Be cared for exclusively by a Racing SA licensed participant, a Racing SA acknowledged rehomer, or a Racing SA affiliated horse sanctuary
• Be officially retired (active broodmares, as defined in the stud book, do not qualify)
• Have been domiciled in South Australia for at least 30 days

Applications for the drought relief assistance package are currently open and can be submitted through the Racing SA website.

For retired thoroughbred owners who may not meet the eligibility criteria for the drought relief package but are experiencing financial difficulties, Racing SA’s Thorough Care team offers emergency assistance options.

This initiative is part of Racing SA’s commitment to equine welfare, administered through its Thorough Care SA department.

Ongoing efforts under this framework include retired racehorse assistance packs, post-racing rehoming pathways, emergency aid programs, exclusion lists, educational clinics, sponsorships, and community events.

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