Racing NSW relaxes travel restrictions

The racing industry has received a shot in the arm with the lifting of restrictions over the movement of horses between Victoria and NSW, effective immediately.

Horses entering NSW from Victoria can now travel directly to a racetrack or stable after racing officials made changes to the COVID-19 protocols following advice from biosecurity experts.

With Victoria recording no new coronavirus cases in the past 12 days, there are hopes border restrictions across the country will continue to be relaxed, particularly in the lead up to Queensland’s summer carnival, culminating in Magic Millions day on January 16.

Racing NSW has also confirmed people entering the state from Victoria will no longer be required to self-isolate before attending a licensed racing location, effective from November 23.

The decision was made in light of the announcement by the NSW government that it would reopen the border between the states from that date.

Restrictions between New Zealand and Australia have also been lifted with travellers now able to head directly from the airport to a racetrack or stable without the requirement to quarantine or provide a negative COVID-19 test.

However, current pandemic protocols will remain in place for race days, including caps on the number of patrons allowed on course.