Horse racing insiders say Birdsville Races investigation casts shadow over events

Two prominent Queensland bush racing figures were suspended days before the iconic Birdsville Races for the alleged use of illegal equipment known as a jigger. Longreach Racing Club president Andrew Watts said the incident shook the industry in western Queensland. The function of Queensland's racing watchdog has been called into question.

Investigation into alleged jigger incident in Birdsville continues.

The use of illegal equipment such as jiggers is cruel and unnecessary. It is a loosely held secret in country racing. The alleged incident on the Birdsville racetrack was unwittingly captured and posted to social media by a bush racing photographer. Queensland Racing Integrity Commission is investigating the matter. Queensland Trainers Association Queensland state executive Cameron Partington said any activity that would be harmful to a horse was frowned upon in the industry. He said the reputation and financial pressures of the sport were extreme on jockeys and trainers.

Birdsville Races investigation casts shadow over horse racing. Queensland Racing Integrity Commission received $31 million in state grant funding every year. It has the power to investigate, suspend, and ban participants found to be doing wrong things. Mr Watts said the incident called the functioning of the integrity commission into question. Mr Partington said it was too early to cast blame. QRIC commissioner Shane Gillard said organisation worked to ensure the Integrity of racing and animal welfare was upheld.

Inquiry into the alleged incident at Birdsville is ongoing. Both participants have been asked to show cause and other witnesses will be called to give evidence. If found guilty, they could face life bans from the sport.