The Harness Racing NSW Board has “warned off” Trainer Mr Michael Siejka for failing to comply with repeated directions to produce his telephone records, bank and financial statements in relation to the current HRNSW investigation into alleged corrupt and improper practices within the NSW harness industry.
Mr Siejka’s failure to comply with this direction has the capacity to interfere with or frustrate the ongoing investigation into allegations of corrupt conduct which strikes directly at the heart of the integrity of the Harness industry.
The warning off is effectively immediately.
Note: The Australian Harness Racing Rules relevant to this matter are:
Rule 187 (2): A person shall not refuse to answer questions or to produce a horse, document, substance or piece of equipment, or give false or misleading evidence for information at an enquiry or investigation;
Rule 187 (3): A person shall comply with an order or direction given by the stewards;
Rule 187 (7): A person who fails to comply with any provision of this rule is guilty of an offence.
Harness Racing NSW (HRNSW) is the controlling body for harness racing in New South Wales with responsibility for commercial and regulatory management of the industry including 31 racing clubs across the State. HRNSW is headed by an industry-appointed Board of Directors and is independent of Government.
To arrange an interview or for further information please contact:
Name: Reid Sanders
Position: Regulatory Manager
Phone: (02) 9722 6600
Email: rsanders@hrnsw.com.au
