STEWARDS REPORT
DEAGON – 26 MARCH 2013
Racing Queensland Limited Stewards today conducted an inquiry into a complaint lodged by the Redcliffe Harness Racing Club regarding comments attributed to Mr. Ross Fletcher, a former trainer / driver, on the social media website Facebook.
After considering all of the evidence, which included a copy of the relevant comments posted on Facebook, Mr. Fletcher pleaded guilty to a charge. pursuant to Rule 248 which reads:
A person shall not say, publish or write or cause to be said, published or written anything malicious, intimidatory or otherwise improper about the Controlling Body, its members and employees or the stewards or anyone else associated with the harness racing industry.
The particulars of the charge being that on 20 February 2013, he made improper comments towards the committee of the Redcliffe Harness Racing Club on the social media website Facebook.
When considering an appropriate penalty stewards took into account Mr. Fletcher’s guilty plea and the remorse he displayed. Stewards advised Mr Fletcher that these comments are damaging to the Harness Racing industry and will not be tolerated. Mr. Fletcher was subsequently fined $500.
Stewards directed that a $250 portion of this fine be suspended for a period of 12 months dependant on Mr. Fletcher’s compliance with this rule.
Stewards will be vigilant in their approach in monitoring social media forums to ensure that all participants comply with all their requirements under the rules
Mr. Fletcher was advised of his rights of appeal.
