WA Harness Racing update – COVID-19

Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) advises that from 16 March 2020, all racing will proceed in WA with only those essential to the running of racing being granted access to racecourses at all times, including race meetings, trials and trackwork.

This decision has been made in alignment with the announcement by the Federal Government advising against organised non-essential gathering of persons of 500 people or greater, as a precautionary measure against COVID-19.

It is understood that not all race meetings, trials or trackwork may attract a crowd of 500 people. However, the implementation of consistent risk mitigation is paramount to safeguarding the health and safety of our industry participants as well as assist race clubs in ensuring they remain compliant with the Federal Government’s ban on non-essential gatherings.

Limiting potential exposure for participants and staff who are critical to conducting a race meeting, is a prudent measure designed to ensure racing is able to continue to operate. Whilst it is appreciated that this disrupts the ordinary enjoyment of racing for all, these are necessary measures that are aimed at ensuring racing is able to continue.

Those considered to be essential for the running of racing, include:

• Trainers, drivers, stable staff, racing vision broadcasters, horse transport staff, RWWA and race club staff and officials, and limited accredited media.

For more specific guidelines for essential persons entering racecourses, please click here.

Race Clubs will continue to maintain general and sensible hygiene practices that have been implemented over the past few weeks, including ensuring appropriate hand sanitisers are placed in all toilets and stocked up accordingly, as well as increased cleaning rotations in high touch points across facilities.

RWWA has contingencies in place to conduct race meetings in Western Australia without spectators and is working with thoroughbred, harness and greyhound race clubs and industry bodies to implement a stepped approach to the interruption.

The health and safety of our industry as well as the wider community remains of paramount concern and RWWA will continue to closely monitor and follow the advice of health authorities to ensure that appropriate measures are in place.

A dedicated page has been set-up on the RWWA website to provide up to date information for the Western Australian racing industry, in response to the Federal Government and health authorities’ advice regarding coronavirus (COVID-19). To view the page, please click here.

RWWA