Victoria’s racing minister has questioned the sport’s governing body’s handling of the Damien Oliver case, urging the racing integrity watchdog to review the inquiry.
Racing Minister Denis Napthine has asked Racing Integrity Commissioner Sal Perna to examine whether Racing Victoria acted appropriately in opting not to stand Oliver down from competition during its misconduct inquiry.
Despite meeting with Oliver about the betting allegations in October, Racing Victoria allowed him to ride in the spring carnival in which he won three Group 1 races, including the Victoria Derby.
He rode favourite Americain into 11th place in the Melbourne Cup.
In a letter sent to Mr Perna on Tuesday, Dr Napthine also asks him to review the efficiency and timing of Racing Victoria’s inquiry, including when officials received allegations, evidence and admissions relating to Oliver.
“This inquiry attracted significant public interest and has raised questions regarding the general integrity of thoroughbred racing in Victoria,” Dr Napthine’s letter said.
“I was very concerned about allegations of mishandling and delays into resolving (the Oliver inquiry).”
Oliver, who’s copped an eight-month ban for wagering $10,000 on Miss Octopussy at Moonee Valley in 2010, met with Racing Victoria officials in October over misconduct allegations on the condition the discussions would take place “without prejudice”.
