New Horizons for Breeders’ Australia

Only in the job for five-minutes and already Andrew Hore-Lacy is ‘searching new horizons’ with Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and Aushorse unveiling a new team.

“These appointments mark an exciting new chapter for TBA -Aushorse,” Andrew said, “with each bring deep industry knowledge and genuine passion for what we do on behalf of breeders.”

“With the guidance of our Boards and support of members, we are well positioned to strengthen our industry and advance the interests of Australian breeders here and internationally.”

In fact, it was Andrew Hore-Lacy himself who succeeded the very capable Tom Riley in June as Chief Executive Officer as he was formally head of horse racing at the Seven Network.

“Andrew has an authentic commitment for the entire racing industry and a deep understanding of the breeding sector’s pivotal importance,” said Aushorse President Antony Thompson.

“Alongside the many challenges faced by breeder, his robust background in communications, media and stakeholder engagement equips him with a diverse array of skills.”

“At Seven, Andrew led a team of 15 full-time staff responsible for the creation, development, and production of all horse racing-related content and programming.”

“His success at the network has been marked by a series of innovative and successful initiatives that have significantly enriched the network’s horse racing portfolio.”

Commencing on Monday 1 September the ‘refreshed structure is designed to better serve breeders, strengthen industry connections, and further advance Australia’s world-class sector.’

American Leanna Packard heads Marketing and Partnerships having had 11 years successful with Newgate when Marketing Manager and Racing Coordinator through successful times.

A graduate of The Ohio State University, and beginning her career in marketing at WinStar Farm, Kentucky she will lead marketing across both TBA and Aushorse.

In short, Leanna’s portfolio is to ‘drive stakeholder engagement iniatives to further elevate the visibility and influence of Australia’s thoroughbred breeding and racing industry.’

Also new is Head of Advocacy and Communications Meagan McGrath who was Senior Manager of Community, Social Responsibility and Equine Welfare at the Victoria Racing Club.

A Godolphin Flying Start graduate Meagan will lead advocacy, communications, stakeholder relations and equine welfare policy, championing the interests of breeders at the highest levels.

Gemma Cameron is now Head of Finance and Administration, and as a Chartered Accountant, has been with the firm since 2020 and will oversee all financial and administrative functions.

Her newly expanded portfolio includes development, implementation, and management of finance operations, IT and office services, human resources, plus as governance and compliance.

Madison Tims continues as Head of Education and Projects at TBA, a position she has held since 2022 when the first to be appointed to a dedicated education and workforce development.

A graduate of Waikato University, she will coordinate and deliver national programs that support skills development and industry engagement across the thoroughbred breeding sector.

Looking ahead to 2025–26, Andrew Hore-Lacy said “From 1 August 2025 all Mare Returns and Foal Ownership Declarations must be lodged within 30 days of a foal’s birth to avoid penalties.”

“We are proud to be working closely with AgriFutures to help guide investment into research, development and extension activities for the betterment of our industry.”

“Recent and current projects include an economic impact report on our industry, a review of yearling endoscopy practices, and a national strategy for assessing demand for retired thoroughbreds, amongst others that are addressing significant industry challenges.”