There have been some recent instances, especially during inspections conducted at registered stables, where Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) Stewards have observed and taken action against persons driving a horse in sulky, particularly during trackwork, who have not been wearing a properly affixed helmet, a properly affixed protective vest, and/or adequate footwear offering a sufficient level of bodily protection.
There have been some recent instances during race meetings and inspections conducted at registered stables where Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) Stewards have become aware that persons carrying on activities regulated by licence have not been the holder of a current licence.
On 23 April 2026, the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT) considered a charge issued by Harness Racing Victoria Stewards against licensed trainer-driver Jason Grimson under Australian Harness Racing Rule 190.
On 25 March 2026, the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT) considered two (2) charges issued by Harness Racing Victoria Stewards against licensed trainer Joe Costa under Australian Harness Racing Rule 190.
On 20 January 2026, the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT) considered a charge issued by Harness Racing Victoria Stewards against licensed trainer Robert Evans under Australian Harness Racing Rule 190.
On 10 April 2026, the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT) considered five (5) charges issued by Harness Racing Victoria Stewards against licensed Stablehand Greg Burns under Australian Harness Racing Rules 218, 187(2), and 91(1)(c); and under Australian Trotting Stud Book Regulations 11(4)(b).
Following a proposal and lengthy consultation with representatives from the Victorian Trainers & Drivers Association (VTDA), Stewards advise that the Push Out Position at Melton will be temporarily relocated under a controlled trial. This change will take effect from the race meeting on Friday, 24 April 2026, and is planned to continue for a minimum of three months.
On 17 March 2026, the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT) considered two (2) charges issued by Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) Stewards against licensed Grade B trainer-driver Zac Steenhuis under Australian Harness Racing Rules (AHRR) 231(1)(d).
On 2 March 2026, the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT) considered four (4) charges issued by Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) Stewards against licensed Grade B trainer-driver Mark Riseley under Australian Harness Racing Rules (AHRR) 218, 243, 209 and 187(2).
Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) Stewards remind all licensed trainers that it is an offence under the Australian Harness Racing Rules (AHRR) to possess, administer, cause to administer, attempt to administer or be a party to the administration or attempted administration of a product containing cobalt salts to a horse by injection.
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).