On 1 November 2018 the new whip penalty guidelines come into effect in Tasmania. On that date all drivers will have their whip offence records reset.
After 1 November 2018 reprimands will no longer be issued for whip offences. This approach is in line with other states.
For breaches of AHRR 156(2) “ A driver shall only apply the whip in a flicking motion whilst holding a rein in each hand with the tip of the whip pointed forward in an action which does not engage the shoulder.”
FIRST OFFENCE- Minimum Fine of $200 which will be suspended for two months.
SECOND OFFENCE - Suspended fine of $200 for first offence becomes payable in addition to a fine of $400 for the second offence .
THIRD OFFENCE – Suspension for not less than two race meetings.
For breaches of AHRR 156(3) “ A driver shall not use a whip in an unapproved manner”
FIRST OFFENCE- Minimum Fine of $100 which will be suspended for two months.
SECOND OFFENCE- Suspended fine of $100 for first offence becomes payable in addition to a fine of $200 for the second offence.
THIRD OFFENCE- Suspension for not less than two race meetings.
The reset period for whip offences will be reduced from 3 months to 2 months as of 1 November 2018.
BLATANT BREACHES- Where Stewards determine a breach of the rule to be a blatant breach then stronger penalties may be imposed.
FEATURE RACES- Where a breach occurs in a feature race fines will not be suspended. Feature races will be defined as those with a total stakemoney of $15000 or more.
WHIP USED WITH A FREE HAND- Where a driver crosses their reins and uses the whip with a free hand fines will not be suspended.