Mental Health Support Program for Queensland Racing Industry Participants
Racing Queensland is committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of industry participants. To assist with mental health challenges, RQ provides access to free, confidential counselling and support services through external provider Telus Health (formerly Benestar). This service is available to participants across all three racing codes.
The program is open to:
- Queensland-based licensed Trainers and their employees
- Committee members and employees of licensed Queensland race clubs
- Queensland Breeders and Owners Association direct employees
- Ancillary workers, such as Farriers, Horse Breakers, and Trackwork Riders
The Mental Health Support Program offers:
- Up to four (4) free, confidential counselling and/or coaching sessions
- Access to Telus Health’s ‘Best You’ online platform, which includes educational tools, resources, and information
How to Access the Service:
To make an appointment, call Telus Health at 1300 360 364 or visit their website at www.benestar.com.
Additional Resources:
Your mental health matters, and we encourage all participants to take advantage of these supportive resources.
Drugs & Alcohol
Racing Queensland reminds all licensed participants, and individuals carrying out official duties that compliance with drug and alcohol regulations is mandatory.
To ensure compliance, QRIC Stewards conduct random drug and alcohol testing across race days, trials, and trackwork sessions. These measures aim to uphold the highest standards of safety and integrity within the racing industry.
Failure to comply with these rules jeopardizes the safety of others and the integrity of the sport. Please ensure you adhere to all regulations listed below relevant to each code or racing.
Thoroughbred- All licensed riders and registered horse handlers in Queensland must comply with the drug and alcohol restrictions outlined in the Australian Rules of Racing AR139 and AR141. A full copy of these rules is available here.
These rules specify prohibited substances and set maximum allowable limits for certain substances, including a maximum breath alcohol level of 0.02%.
Harness- All licensed drivers and individuals carrying out official duties in Queensland must comply with the drug and alcohol restrictions outlined in the Australian Harness Racing Rules 250 and 250A. A full copy of these rules is available here.
Greyhound- As per Greyhound Australasia Rule 95 (2) An offence is committed if a person handles, or attempts to handle a greyhound when incapable of doing so by reason of intoxication, illness or any other cause. A full copy of these rules is available here.