Racehorses

Ms PENNICUIK (Southern Metropolitan) — As members would be aware, three-time Melbourne Cup runner-up and Australian crowd favourite Red Cadeaux was euthanised 17 days after sustaining injuries in the Melbourne Cup on 3 November. I have no doubt that those close to the horse and the general public are saddened by his injury and his death, as am I. The injury and death of Red Cadeaux in such a high-profile event has meant that there has been a great deal of public attention and concern for the fate of this particular horse. However, it also shines a light on the largely hidden fate of other horses. The Black Caviars and Red Cadeauxs of the industry are few and far between. What is the life of a racehorse really like?

Around 31 000 thoroughbreds and a similar number of standardbreds will be in training or racing at any one time in Australia. Many of those are injured on the track or in training. When a horse breaks a leg or a shoulder, it is often impossible for a vet to repair the bone, and even when recovery is possible, it is unlikely that the horse will ever race again. Studies have found that almost 40 per cent of racehorses leave the industry due to illness, injury or other problems every year. A few lucky ones are saved by caring individuals or horse rescue organisations or are used for other purposes.

We need more transparency and a plan to reduce wastage in the horse racing industry. The Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses has proposed that 1 per cent of all betting turnover be used to establish a retirement plan for horses.