Queensland equine operators and retired racehorses benefit from QOTT Grants Program

Successful applicants for the 2023 Queensland Off-The-Track Grants Program includes 21 not-for-profit organisations, charities, businesses and acknowledged retrainers across the state.

The QOTT Grants Program collectively helps to improve outcomes for retired racehorses while supporting the growth of equine operators in Queensland.

QOTT Chair Dr Christine Johnson enthused “It’s fantastic to see the number of businesses and individuals applying for our new grant categories, which will help to boost the number of opportunities available for retired racehorses across Queensland.

“With a variety of grants on offer in 2023, we are ensuring that people working with retired racehorses are well supported in helping us achieve our animal care objectives.”

Sharing in $286,000, the grants will benefit those who provide retraining and rehabilitation services, or second careers for retired racehorses and spans across four initiatives.

They are:

• QOTT Business Expansion Grants – five grants awarded totalling $23,000;

• QOTT Acknowledged Retrainer Expansion Grants – eight grants totalling $157,000;

• QOTT Second Chance Retraining Grants – two grants totalling $52,000; and

• QOTT Therapy Horse Grants – six grants totalling $54,000.

Successful applicants include the Transitioning Thoroughbreds Foundation - a not-for-profit that transitions retired racehorses into their next chapter, whether it be show jumping or a long-term home and Riding for the Disabled Maryborough – a charity focused on the therapeutic benefits of horse riding.

The grants program complements the various post-racing initiatives introduced by QOTT over the past 18 months, including the Subsidised Lessons Program, Acknowledged Retrainers Program, Event Sponsorship Program, QOTT Clubhouse and the new OTT Owner Welcome Pack.

Earlier this week, Racing Minister Grace Grace attended the QOTT Program’s Showjumping Showcase at the Ekka, with the new competition becoming the most lucrative showjumping event for retired racehorses in the nation.

The $50,000 event attracted some of Queensland’s most prominent retired racehorses, with the Showcase paying down to 30th place including $10,000 to the winner.

Minister Grace shared “I want to congratulate the community organisations, businesses and individuals who are the recipients of this year’s grants, and hope they continue to make a significant impact on the well-being of retired racehorses.

“In particular, it’s great to see our Acknowledged Retrainers well supported in this round of grants, which will assist in a variety of resourcing and infrastructure projects to help them expand their operations and upgrade their facilities.”

Click here for the list of successful QOTT Grants Program applicants.

Image. Credit: Riding for the Disabled Maryborough