Trainers call on NSW govt to step up, after $30k industry donation

The Australian Turf Club Foundation provided 1100 bales of hay to the Tamworth Jockey Club, who distributed it to about 70 trainers, ranging from small to large operations.

Tamworth trainer Sue Grills was grateful for the donation from the community organisation, but called on the state government to step up.

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"Racing NSW has got plenty of money, it would be nice if they would help out a bit more," Mrs Grills said.

"Any assistance helps, but at this point in the drought, financial assistance would be a great boost.

"All our costs are escalating - feed's gone through the roof, wages have gone up again, fuel's gone up - but we can't really put our fees up, because a lot of our owners are farmers who are already hurting."

Tamworth MP and Racing Minister Kevin Anderson would not answer questions about why the industry body was forking out thousands of dollars in support, with no assistance on offer from the state government.

However, Mr Anderson vowed to investigate new drought assistance options for trainers, particularly as the impact of the drought continues to expand in to new industries.

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"I'll certainly be taking this back to my department to see what we can do to provide support as well," Mr Anderson said.

"There is drought support assistance out there for a lot of other people but [the racing industry] doesn't get it."

Australian Turf Club chairman Phil Morely said hay was purchased from northern Victoria, with money raised through the sale of pins at Sydney races.

In less than 12 months, the organisation has raised almost $200,000.

"These latest grants to our racing industry participants will help many struggling with the ongoing and devastating impacts of drought," Mr Morley said.

Tamworth Jockey Club general manager Mitchell Shaw said local members of the racing industry were delighted with the donation

"We are grateful for this support as everyday we see first hand the impact the drought has on trainers, their viability and the impact on their staff," he said.