With respect to the actions taken by Victoria Police at the Melton harness racing meeting on 28 August 2016 involving four harness racing participants, Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) provides the following update:
In considering whether to take any action in accordance with the Australian Harness Racing Rules (AHRR) while the police investigations continue, the HRV Stewards have considered all of the relevant circumstances including the submissions provided on behalf of the participants as to why no action should be taken against the participants or their licences. The HRV Stewards also considered the importance of protecting the integrity of the harness racing industry and maintaining public confidence in the industry.
In accordance with the provisions of AHRR 183, the HRV Stewards have directed the suspension of the licences of the four relevant participants, with immediate effect, for no longer than 3 months (should circumstances remain the same) while the investigation continues. Pursuant to AHRR 15(d), the relevant participants have also been excluded from attending racecourses in Victoria for no longer than 3 months (should circumstances remain the same) while the investigation continues. The participants have been advised of their rights of appeal against this decision of the HRV Stewards. Any such appeal must be lodged with the Racing Appeals and Disciplinary (RAD) Board by 5.00pm on Monday 12 September 2016.
With respect to the further investigation by Victoria Police, HRV is unable to make any further comment at this time.
