Mr Shane Harmey - Trainer's Licence Suspended

Harness Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) Stewards commenced an Inquiry today in relation to the registered training establishment of licensed Trainer/Driver Mr Shane Harmey as follows:

• Adequacy of feed, water, housing and behavioural needs for horses;
• The circumstances surrounding the death of YANKEE TRENDSETTER and MAJOR SAMIR;
• The disposal of seven (7) horses owned by Summit Bloodstock and others.

Mr Harmey appeared at the Inquiry and presented evidence in relation to his registered training establishment and the above matters.

In addition, HRNSW Investigator Mr Jason Robbs and Assistant Regulatory Veterinarian Dr Annie Knox were present at the Inquiry and presented evidence, together with Mr Jamie Durnberger-Smith of Summit Bloodstock PTY LTD by telephone.

Prior to adjourning the Inquiry to conduct further enquiries, HRNSW Stewards informed Mr Harmey that consideration would be given to Australian Harness Racing Rule (AHRR) 183 as follows:

AHRR 183.  Pending the outcome of an inquiry, investigation or objection, or where a person has been charged with an offence, the Stewards may direct one or more of the following -

(a)  that a horse shall not be nominated for or compete in a race;

(b)  that a driver shall not drive or otherwise take part in a race;

(c)  that the horses of certain connections shall not be nominated for or start in a race;

(d)  that a licence or any other type of authority or permission be suspended.

(e) that a horse shall not be transferred to an immediate family member or close associate within the meaning of AHRR 120.

Mr Harmey was invited to provide submissions and following a consideration of those submissions, together with the evidence presented at the Inquiry at this time, HRNSW Stewards invoked AHRR 183 (d) and suspended the Trainer’s Licence of Mr Harmey, effective immediately, pending the outcome of the Inquiry.

Mr Harmey was informed of his right to appeal this decision of HRNSW Stewards.

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