The Queensland Off-The-Track Program has this morning unveiled the nine successful applicants for its 2024 QOTT Grants Program.
Under Round 3 of the Grants Program, $123,600 has been awarded to a range of not-for-profit organisations, charities, businesses and QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers across the state, who provide equine retraining or rehabilitation services, or second careers for retired racehorses.
The funding also benefits retired racehorses that have previously transitioned from the racing industry into the domestic horse community.
The successful applicants span across three alternative initiatives. They are:
- QOTT Business Expansion Grants – three grants awarded totalling $43,700;
- QOTT Acknowledged Retrainer Expansion Grants – two grants totalling $40,000; and
- QOTT Therapy Horse Grants – four grants totalling $39,900.
No eligible applications were received for the QOTT Veterinary and Rehabilitation Grant or the QOTT Second Chance Retraining Grant.
QOTT Chair Dr Christine Johnson said that it’s imperative to increase the post-racing opportunities available for retired racehorses outside of the common pathways.
“Supporting equine operators that utilise retired racehorses in non-competitive activities is extremely important to QOTT as we continue to expand the range of post-racing pathways available for retired racehorses,” Dr Johnson said.
“From riding schools to therapy organisations, QOTT aims to increase the breadth of career options and non-competitive pathways available, as well as driving demand for retired thoroughbred and standardbred horses into long-term homes.
“Additionally, funding provided by QOTT allows our statewide network of Acknowledged Retrainers to grow their capacity to take on more retired racehorses, which further complements the work of racing trainers and owners who directly transition their horses into second careers.”
The QOTT Program was established to support a high-quality first transition for thoroughbred and standardbred horses, bred for the racing industry and domiciled in Queensland at the time of their retirement from racing or breeding activities.
To maximise aftercare outcomes, the QOTT Program supports the placement of retired racehorses into second careers, promotes life after racing options and identifies retirement pathways.
Additionally, QOTT aims to stimulate demand for thoroughbred and standardbred horses and increase awareness of their adaptability and versatility of use; provide education and support for racing industry participants and the domestic horse community to optimise racehorse aftercare; and advocate for the lifelong traceability of retired racehorses beyond their first exit from the racing industry.
RQ Senior Animal Care Manager Kim Duffy said the QOTT Grants Program was imperative in supporting grassroots community organisations and businesses that make a significant impact on the wellbeing of retired racehorses.
“Now in its third year, the QOTT Grants Program is an important step to help expand aftercare initiatives available to retired racehorses at all stages of their lives,” she said.
“The QOTT Grants Program has already delivered close to $400,000 in funding under the previous two rounds, which collectively helps to improve welfare outcomes for retired racehorses while supporting the growth of equine operators in Queensland.
“I congratulate the community organisations, businesses and individuals who are the recipients of this year’s grants, and look forward to them making a significant impact to the wellbeing of retired racehorses.”
In 2023, the second round of grant funding supported 21 not-for-profit organisations and charities by contributing more than $280,000 towards maximising aftercare outcomes – in addition to a further $100,000 in its first round in 2022.
The QOTT Grants Program complements the various post-racing initiatives introduced by QOTT over the past three years.
These include the Subsidised Lessons Program, Acknowledged Retrainers Program, Event Sponsorship Program, QOTT Nutrition Education Hub, Safety Net Partnership with Save A Horse Australia, QOTT Clubhouse and the New OTT Owner Welcome Pack, QOTT Education Program and QOTT’s Premium Event Partnerships.
Click here for more information on the 2024 QOTT Grants Program recipients.