Ben Currie’s stablehand disqualified

A stablehand employed by trainer Ben Currie has been disqualified for three months on a race day treatment charge with two other inquiries have been adjourned.

Cameron Schwenke, who was banned for three months, Ben Currie’s father Mark Currie and stablehand Greg Britnell were to face a resumed inquiry on Friday.

The Mark Currie inquiry was adjourned until May 21 to allow his legal team to review the evidence tabled so submissions can be made in defence of the charges.

Britnell’s hearing has been adjourned until May 19.

The inquiries were opened on April 7 after integrity officers allegedly saw suspicious activity at Ben Currie’s stables.

All three have been suspended pending the conclusion of the inquiry.

Queensland Racing Integrity Commisision boss Ross Barnett said he expected Mark Currie’s matter to be finalised on May 21 and he remained suspended until the inquiry was finalised.

“Mr Schwenke was found guilty of AR 175 (a) dishonest, corrupt, fraudulent, improper or dishonourable action or practice in connection with racing,” Barnett said.

“He is guilty of assisting in the administration of a substance to race horses Boomwa, Giveus a Cuddle, Gully Command, Hang, With A Promise, Publishing Power and Ruetigger on the morning of April 7, the same day they were engaged to race at Toowoomba. In the opinion of QRIC Stewards, it was an improper practice.

“Under the rules of racing, treatment on race day with any form of medication is unlawful and this can include products which may be permitted on non-race days.”

“Stewards were satisfied that Mr Schwenke assisted in the administration of a substance. As the administration occurred on a race day and given orally, it was in breach of the rules of racing.”

QRIC inquiries are closed to the media and Barnett did not reveal the substance involved.