The Minister for Racing, the Hon. Anthony Carbines, has appointed Dr Maxine Brain to Harness Racing Victoria’s Board, adding veterinary and animal welfare expertise.
Dr. Brain was appointed for a three-year term starting July 1, while HRV Board member Judy Rothacker’s tenure was extended for an additional three years.
Mr Carbines congratulated the pair on their appointments.
“Dr. Maxine Brain has a long affiliation with racing, racing administration and equine veterinary practices, expertise and knowledge that will be of great benefit to Harness Racing Victoria,” Mr Carbines said.
“Judy Rothacker is an educator and leader with a lifelong devotion to harness racing, and I am thrilled that she has chosen to extend her time on the Board.”
Dr. Brain becomes the sixth member of the HRV Board, joining Chair Bernard Saundry, Ms. Rothacker, Dennis Bice, John Doherty, and Adam Wallish.
“I welcome Maxine to our Board and am sure her equine veterinary experience and racing administration expertise will be a great asset,” Mr Saundry said.
“Caring for the animal before, during, and after their racing careers is fundamental to our industry, and it is terrific to have Maxine on Board to help us ensure best practice.
“I am also pleased that Judy has accepted a further term with the Board; her industry connection and leadership are greatly valued on the Board and throughout harness racing in Victoria.”
Dr. Brain was a Melbourne University graduate who entered private practice with an emphasis on harness racing horses, working alongside leading horses and trainers, and as an on-course veterinarian at Moonee Valley.
She accepted a position at Goulburn Valley Equine Hospital, followed by an externship at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington Kentucky, then worked with thoroughbreds with Dr Ross Teitzel and David McKellar in Flemington, before setting up a Kilmore practice in 2000.
In 2015, she founded Advantage Equine, where she continues to operate today, caring for elite horses at Flemington and serving as a private veterinarian in the Kilmore and Geelong regions.
Dr. Brain served as a long-time member of Kilmore Racing Club’s committee and sat for six years on the Harness Racing Advisory Council.
“I was honoured to be asked to join the HRV Board,” Dr. Brain said. “I have a great passion for the animal, and one of my priorities will be to help advance equine health and welfare.
“The industry has had its challenges, but I am looking forward to working with HRV Board members, staff, and stakeholders to see the sport flourish again.”