Trans-Tasman National Thoroughbred Week

“National Thoroughbred Week gives us all the chance to connect with the public outside the traditional racing audience,” stated Basil Nolan of Thoroughbred Breeders’ Australia.

“It supports the work, Aushorse, and Thoroughbred Breeders’ Australia are promoting the industry and to ensure people understand the scale, professionalism and care that underpin it.”

“Opening our gates and having honest, direct conversations with the public is the most effective ways to build long-term trust and interest, with the industry working on a national level.”

Australia and New Zealand are set to launch National Thoroughbred Week, an initiative to bring the public closer to the thoroughbred racing industry through real, hands-on experiences.

Staged 20 – 24 November, the 5-day event will see racing stables, stud farms and aftercare facilities, giving a look at the daily care, dedication, and passion behind Thoroughbred racing.

At a time when public perception of racing is more scrutinised than ever, the National Thoroughbred Week offers an opportunity for the public to experience the realities of the industry.

From observing morning trackwork to exploring equine welfare and post-racing career pathways, it empowers policymakers and the public to form informed perspectives about the industry.

This project aligns with Together for Racing International, a movement to share practices across racing to promote equine welfare, community engagement, and sustainable industry growth.

The open-week concept follows in the footsteps of the highly successful National Racehorse Week in the UK, which has made significant strides in how the industry engages with the public.

Justine Sclater, Head of Welfare and Sustainability at New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing said “it was so uplifting and rewarding to have conversations with New Zealand’s Open Farms week.”

“I’d really like to encourage anyone with the capacity to take part in National Thoroughbred Week to support the concept and we’re here to make sure the process is as easy and stress free.”

“National Thoroughbred Week is about unity, giving an opportunity for the industry across two countries to come together and showcase the true heart of racing, giving all a role to play.”

“From trainers to breeding operations, whether it’s a local country stable or a major stud farm, we want every part of the industry involved as it’s participation, and to bring it together.”

With industry-wide participation, the pilot event is aiming to attract 10,000 attendees in its first year, with a goal to exceed 100,000 visitors by Year 3 as the initiative further expands.

Vicki Leonard, the power behind Kick Up stated, “Kick Up has been focused on tackling perception challenges online and through education, but marketing also needs real-world action.”

“National Thoroughbred Week is the next step – opening stable doors, creating hands-on moments, and showing people the reality of racing, up close and personal, giving a direct experience.”

“Run alongside Kick Up’s online Melbourne Cup perception campaign, it invites the public to step inside the industry in a real-life experience immediately after the height of racing’s visibility.”

In addition, Nick Bawden, CEO of Racing SA conveyed his support with “Racing SA is dedicated to championing the National Thoroughbred Week Pilot through sponsorship and partnerships.”

“Staged through the media and community involvement, this promising event is set to become an annual fixture that positions racing as transparent, engaging, and accessible to all.”

And its National Thoroughbred Week who’s calling on trainers, breeders, aftercare specialists, and industry partners and stakeholders for this nationwide movement, whether hosting an open day, sponsoring the event or volunteering time as there are many ways to make this initiative a success.