Article: Consultation underpins action on equine welfare initiative

Via TDN Aus NZ written by Bren O’Brien

A key member of an industry-formed independent welfare panel says the response to an issues paper it has released will play a major role in the successful establishment of a proper framework for the improvement of thoroughbred welfare.

The Thoroughbred Aftercare Welfare Working Group (TAWWG) was formed earlier this year by Thoroughbred Breeders Australia in conjunction with major stakeholders such as the Australian Trainers' Association and the Australian Jockeys' Association.

It consists of an independent four-person panel, chaired by former Victorian premier Dr Denis Napthine, who with the assistance of a steering group of key thoroughbred industry figures, has been charged with identifying issues and formulating recommendations to ensure the lifetime health and welfare of a thoroughbred is a prime consideration for horses leaving the racing and breeding industry.

The panel's formation came in the wake of a series of horse welfare issues, highlighted by a story on equine welfare on the ABC's 7:30 last October which garnered national attention.