Subsidised Lessons Program to provide new support for retired racehorses

July 26, 2021

The Queensland Off-The-Track Program has today (26/7) launched a new initiative to support retired racehorses as they transition from the racing industry into the domestic horse community.
 
The Subsidised Lessons Program will enable new owners of retired standardbred and thoroughbred horses to receive instruction and tailored support across a range of areas including feeding and nutrition, horse care and husbandry, groundwork, behaviour and ridden components.
 
Queensland Off-The-Track Board Chair Sharon Cowden said the program, which will operate as a pilot program during 2021/22, was the first of a number of initiatives that would be introduced in the coming months to support aftercare for Queensland’s retired racehorses.
 
“Supporting the transition of retired standardbreds and thoroughbreds into the domestic horse community and providing advice and guidance to new owners so that retired racehorses are given the appropriate care and attention that they deserve beyond the track is a key priority of the QOTT Program," 
 
“The Subsidised Lessons Program is a demonstration of this commitment,” Ms Cowden said.
 
The program will operate through a voucher system, where approved participants will be able to select a coach from the approved list. Vouchers will then be issued to cover the cost of lessons.”
 
Approved participants will be eligible for up to 10 individual lessons of up to 45 minutes in duration with an Equestrian Australia Accredited QOTT Approved Coach.

Click here for Program information, including eligibility criteria, details of QOTT Approved Coaches and the online application form.
 
Further information about the QOTT Program and initiatives is available at the QOTT website.