Breeders to benefit as Vicbred bonus allocations shift

Harness racing breeders will see more money flow their way under a change to Vicbred first-win bonus allocations that takes effect in Victoria from next week (October 13).

Foal nominators will now receive 15 per cent of any first-win bonus, up from five per cent. The increase effectively gifts breeders an extra $700 each time a maiden earns a $7000 Vicbred bonus.

Owners (80 percent) and trainers (5 percent) will retain their existing share, while the five percent previously directed to studmasters and five per cent to drivers will instead go to foal nominators.

Harness Racing Victoria CEO Matt Isaacs said the decision was about shoring up the industry’s breeding base.

“This change moves more money into breeders’ pockets, recognising the importance of encouraging breeding in Victoria to reverse trends and ensure our trainers and drivers have plenty of future champions in their hands,” Isaacs said.

He said the move complemented July’s announcement of $2.75 million of State Government funding into Vicbred Vouchers and was a further reinforcement of Victoria’s commitment to breeders.

The proposal was endorsed at the Harness Racing Advisory Council’s August meeting, which brings together kindred bodies, independent members, and HRV Board and staff.

“I am very proud of the mature way our stakeholders have discussed and resolved the first-win bonus allocations, taking an industry-first perspective to ensure participant returns have the maximum benefit,” Isaacs said.

Harness Breeders Victoria president John Coffey welcomed the change, saying it was a “positive step forward” for an industry grappling with declining foal crops.

“Foal crop numbers have been diminishing, and putting extra money into foal nominators’ pockets will be a positive step forward for the breeding industry, encouraging breeders to reinvest in future generations and turn those trends around,” Coffey said.

Victorian Trainers and Drivers Association president Anthony Butt said the reallocation struck the right balance.

“It is critical for the industry that breeders are supported, particularly with a lot of trainers and drivers also being breeders and owners,” Butt said.

“It is pleasing that trainers have retained their five per cent allotment. It recognises their significant investment and time in the horse. We understand the need to prioritise foal nominators over drivers and studmasters to encourage the breeding of our next racehorses.”

From Terry Gange for Harnesslink