NSW stablehand banned for 16 months over death of horse

Racing NSW has disqualified licensed stablehand and registered owner Brian Carey for 16 months after finding him guilty of failing to provide proper care to the thoroughbred City Limits.

The six-year-old gelding was discovered deceased at Carey’s private property in Maryborough, Victoria, on January 12.

City Limits had suffered a leg injury while in active training in October 2025 and was subsequently sent to Carey’s property for a spell. During that period, the horse was placed under the supervision of individuals with limited experience in handling horses.

Stewards charged Carey under Rule LR114(2)(a), which obliges any person in charge of a horse to ensure it receives proper nutrition and access to water at all times.

Although Carey entered a not guilty plea, stewards determined he had breached the rule after reviewing evidence and veterinary reports presented at the inquiry.

Taking into account the seriousness of the offence and the need for deterrence, stewards imposed a disqualification effective from January 21 through to May 17, 2027.

Veterinary findings tendered during proceedings confirmed that inadequate care contributed to the death of City Limits.