With the breeding season coming to an end, it has been a great relief in Eastern Australia to have had sufficient rainfall to be free of the drought conditions that we had previously endured. This much better season has given so many breeders the opportunity to replenish dwindling stocks of hay and grain at more realistic prices.
What a year we have had and how the industry has adapted it really is quite remarkable.
The valuable lessons learned in 2007 with equine influenza held us in very good stead to be on the front foot and it is a credit to all those involved that the racing industry hardly missed a beat during the entire pandemic and now as we see crowds beginning to return, it is quite surreal to think that most countries in the world are still suffering so badly.
The breeding industry certainly has shown great foresight and together with Inglis showcased the first ever Easter sales online as well as many studs running virtual stallion parades.
Our world and the way we do business has certainly changed, showing that our industry is very willing to adapt and take advantage of new opportunities.
Horse welfare is a very complex issue and we are awaiting on the findings of the task force that have been reviewing over 180 submissions from various industry participants. They are due to hand down their findings in early 2021.
Our industry lost an enormous contributor with the passing of Bob Ingham, who together with his brother Jack, forged a dynasty in Australian breeding and racing over many decades. Our condolences to the Ingham family.
The NSW Government State Training Services skilling for recovery along with the smart and skilled initiative had an excellent take up of over 100 people working on breeding farms upskilling in training programs and a further 48 people to commence traineeship employment in 2021. This initiative is a result of drought, Covid and the lack of visa workers and has been welcomed by the industry.
We are grateful for the enormous effort by our Executive Officer Julianne Christopher in coordinating, we look forward to the development of the Certificate IV Horse Breeding and eventuated return of the Diploma in Horse Breeding for industry participants. This is certainly a forward step in the direction of regulatory measures and career pathway progression for new entrants in the Breeding industry.
Our congratulations to our TBNSW award winners in 2020. The Presidents breeder award was won by the Joy Luck Discretionary (John McGrath), Champion sire and champion 2yo sire to Snitzel, First season sire went to Pride Of Dubai and Broodmare of the year went to Salutations.
We are very grateful that our valued sponsors will be joining us again in 2021 and thank them for their ongoing support. Australian Turf Club, Goldners transport, G1 Goldmine, Horsepower, HQ insurance and IRT.
I would like to thank our EO Julianne Christopher for all of her efforts through such a challenging year as well as the TBNSW board members Hamish Esplin, Paddy Power, Caroline Searcy, Peter Orton, Vin Cox and Olly Tait.
Please remember to check the QLD government regulations for safe travel and border passes to the upcoming Magic Millions sales and wish all breeders that are participating in sales the best of luck for a prosperous new year.
On behalf of Julianne and the board wish you all a happy and safe Christmas and we look forward to 2021 with great confidence.
Mr Stuart Lamont
President – Thoroughbred Breeders NSW
on Behalf of the Directors and Executive
