Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) have been advised by Harness Racing Australia (HRA) that it has been determined following a national review involving Stewards from all six states that the following item of equipment is to be placed on the Banned List.
Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) understands that licensed participants may be required to consume prescribed medication to treat an illness, condition or ailment, which may contain a specified banned substance(s) under the Australian Harness Racing Rules (AHRR).
Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) Stewards remind all licensed participants that in addition to the requirements set out in the HRV Licensing and Registration Policy, participants who hold a Driver licence in any category must, in each licence renewal period, provide a compulsory Drivers Medical Examination form completed by a medical practitioner.
Harness Racing Victoria acknowledges the impact of the recent fires and extreme weather across Victoria and extends its support to all participants and community members affected.
HRV acknowledges the serious bushfire conditions currently impacting parts of Victoria and urges all participants, industry workers and the broader community to prioritise personal safety and animal welfare.
For this Friday’s meeting at Melton, and for all race meetings over the remainder of summer where HRV’s Extreme Weather Policy is in effect, trainers are reminded to check their intended travel routes to and from the track to ensure they are clear of any fire danger areas. Where you are in doubt or have concerns about your travel path, you may scratch without penalty.
Victorian Local Rules update and Extreme Weather Policy reminder
Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) is aware of the increasing availability and use of artificial intelligence (AI) enabled smart wearable devices, including smart glasses and similar technologies. Common examples of these products include, but are not limited to, Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, Google Glass Enterprise Edition and Microsoft HoloLens.
The racing industry has been the subject of increasing scrutiny over recent years, and it has never been more vital to ensure, and be able to demonstrate, continuous improvement in welfare at every stage of a standardbred horse’s life.
On 29 October 2025, the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT) considered a charge issued by Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) Stewards against unlicensed person Peter Murrell under Australian Harness Racing Rule (AHRR) 231(1)(e).
On 28 October 2025, the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT) considered a charge issued by Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) Stewards against licensed trainer Lindsay Rogers under Australian Harness Racing Rule (AHRR) 190(1).
On 16 October 2025, the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT) considered a charge issued by Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) Stewards against previously licensed trainer-driver George Schembri under Australian Harness Racing Rule (AHRR) 190(1).