ALL INTERNET HARNESS RACING INDUSTRY PARTICIPANTS
YOUR OPINION WANTED

As advised earlier the Standardbred Ownership Questionnaire and Survey Forms have been returned, compiled and statistically analysed.  In total we received 475 responses from all States of Australia, an outstanding response. These results were presented to the Australian Harness Racing Council at its recent Annual General Meeting.  Tony McGrath, President of the Council has referred to this material as probably the most important analysis now available to the strategic planners of the future direction of harness racing.   Given the falling breeding numbers of the past decade throughout Australia and New Zealand the racing stock for our clubs has become seriously depleted and its cause goes straight to the confidence level of investors in our industry – THE OWNERS.

A concerted and consistent policy for “Recognition of Owners” by the Clubs and the Racing Media journalists is as important as prizemoney.

Council after careful consideration has referred this important matter to the Chief Executives of the Principal Clubs and State Controlling Bodies for their consideration, further evaluation and action, where appropriate.

As you are aware each State has differing organisational arrangements and funding/resources to accomplish the many and varied tasks which they undertake on behalf of our Industry and its participants so we must rank and prioritise our future action. Some of the initiatives identified have already been undertaken by our Council Members.

The Survey Results confirm that many of our industry participants combine the roles of Owner with that of Breeder, Trainer and Driver.   This enables our industry to be able to focus on a highly participatory approach with the Standardbred horse.

In order for the next step to proceed could you consider the attached Survey Questionnaire and Report and provide us with a response of areas and positive initiatives that you consider have priority and can/should be implemented.   Please be innovative in your response of an idea or concept you think will work for our industry in Australia.

I look forward to receiving a considered response from you hopefully by the Friday, 17th November 2000 to this office by email. 

Rod Pollock
Chief Executive

17th October 2000

CLICK HERE TO GO TO AUSTRALIAN STANDARDBRED 
OWNERSHIP SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE and REPORT