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 How to Read Freezebrand Symbols

Harness Racing Australia Inc
 
Australian Freezebrands New Zealand Freezebrands


Australian Freezebrands

Australian freezebrands use the "alpha angle" symbols - with two lines of four symbols each.

As from 1/8/87 all freeze brands had an extra symbol added to denote the foal is a Standardbred.  In addition, the last two digits of the year of foaling have now been included.  The new freeze brand symbols read as follows:  
 
Example: Standardbred State Postcode* Year of Foaling

Registered No.
S2870001 S 2 87 0001
 
Set out below are the corresponding freeze brand symbols:
 

    
  *State Identification Numbers:
  2-New South Wales
  3-Victoria
  4-Queensland
  5-South Australia
  6-Western Australia
  7-Tasmania
   

Source:  Australian Trotting Stud Book

The brands are usually found on the off side of the horse's neck.

If you find a lost horse that you can identify as a Standardbred from these freezebrands, please contact the relevant State Controlling Body - click here for contact details. 


New Zealand Freezebrands

New Zealand use the "T.V.I." system of freeze brands which are applied as a two line brand.  The top line is three symbols - two to denote the year of birth and the other (the letter "Z") to indicate the country of origin (New Zealand).  The bottom line is a four symbol number.
 
 
Example: Year of Foaling Country

Registered No.
97Z0001 97 Z 0001
 
Set out below are the corresponding freeze brand symbols:

 

 The brands are usually found on the off side of the horse's neck.