Interim report into Tasmanian harness racing delivered

The Rockliff Liberal Government has taken strong action to protect the integrity of the racing community and strengthen animal welfare outcomes, because we take these matters extremely seriously. 

The Government has received and reviewed an Interim Report from independent investigator Ray Murrihy that relates to allegations of team driving, race fixing and animal welfare concerns in the Tasmanian harness racing industry and the management of those issues by the Office of Racing Integrity. 

Minister for Racing, Felix Ellis, said the Interim Report from Mr Murrihy reinforces the recommendations from the Monteith Review and the draft Racing Regulation and Integrity Bill 2023, including a strong governance model for racing and the establishment of a Tasmanian Racing Industry Commissioner.  

“The draft Bill and the associated draft Consequential Amendments Bill are currently open for public comment until 6 October 2023 and provides certainty to the racing industry which generates more than $185 million in economic activity for Tasmania and involves more than 5800 people across the State. 

“Other recommendations in Mr Murrihy’s Interim Report include support for a proposed Equine Welfare Code of Practice, which sets enforceable minimum standards for stocking density, ground conditions, feeding, weather protection, husbandry, transportation, medicines, and post-racing outcomes for horses.” 

Minister Ellis said Tasracing will consider this advice in the development and implementation of the Tasracing Code of Practice for equine welfare and management.   

“When finalised the Code of Practice will be referred to Biosecurity Tasmania for review and consideration as to whether there should be any provision in respect of the Code under the Animal Welfare Act 1993,” Minister Ellis said.  

“Mr Murrihy also recommend changes to ratings, programming and balloting to address the level of competitiveness in Tasmanian harness racing. Tasracing will carefully consider these matters and engage with industry as appropriate.  

“I thank Mr Murrihy for delivering this Interim Report, while he continues to work towards a final report.  

“It is important that this investigation ensures procedural fairness to those involved and maintains impartiality, and I understand that this will take some additional time.   

“I would also like to acknowledge the many industry members and stakeholders who engaged with Mr Murrihy through the extensive and comprehensive review process.” 

The Tasmania Government awaits the final report and recommendations on all aspects of this investigation outlined in the Terms of Reference.  

The interim report is available at: www.nre.tas.gov.au