New Crime Stoppers partnership to tackle animal cruelty in racing

Racing Minister Grace Grace has welcomed a new partnership between Crime Stoppers and the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) to tackle animal cruelty in racing.

Ms Grace said the partnership would encourage people to anonymously report animal abuse and misconduct within the racing industry.

“Animal cruelty has no place in racing but we need the public’s help to stamp it out altogether,” she said.

“The vast majority of those involved in racing do the right thing and uphold the highest animal welfare standards.

“But we learned through the greyhound live baiting scandal that there are some people who will cut corners.

“I want to encourage any Queenslanders with genuine concerns for the welfare of any racing animal to get in touch with Crime Stoppers.”

Ms Grace said expert investigators from QRIC, the state’s independent watchdog overseeing the integrity and welfare standards of racing animals and participants in Queensland, would not hesitate to act against wrongdoers.

Commissioner Ross Barnett said the QRIC was focused on upholding the integrity of the industry.

“We want to ensure everyone in the racing industry has the opportunity to compete on a level playing field, and continue our great racing traditions in Queensland,” Commissioner Barnett said.

“Crime Stoppers is a trusted organisation in Australia, and people can be assured that information can be provided anonymously, and directed to the appropriate agency for action. 

“This partnership will assist us to investigate allegations of unethical behaviour within the industry.

“We rely on information from the public to help us to prosecute those who are doing the wrong thing.

“You can report information about things that affect animal welfare or constitute cruelty to racing animals, such as live baiting.

“You should also report any information you might have about criminal activity across all three codes of racing such as race fixing, use of doping and performance enhancing substances, or illegal betting.

“If you have any information about mistreatment of racing animals or wrongdoing within the sport, we urge you to come forward and report it to Crimes Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”

Crime Stoppers Chief Executive Trevor O’Hara welcomed the partnership.

“Crime Stoppers provides a vital reporting function, allowing people to provide information and intelligence to assist police and other law enforcement agencies to solve crimes,” Mr O’Hara said.

“Often people are afraid to make official complaints and reports. Crime Stoppers is a trusted community volunteer organisation and guarantees anonymity, so people can report information without fear of repercussions or prosecution.

“Information can be provided to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au/racing.”

Media Contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548