Qld Off-The-Track Cup

Jai Warner • November 6, 2023

THE PACIFIC FAIR MAGIC MILLIONS POLO & SHOWJUMPING INTRODUCES QUEENSLAND OFF-THE-TRACK CUP WITH $50,000 PRIZE MONEY POOL – ON JANUARY 7, 2024


New showjumping competition open to all Off-The-Track Thoroughbreds with riders connected to the racing industry supporting Equine Pathways Australia


Magic Millions has today (28/10) announced the introduction of The Queensland Off-The-Track Cup, a new showjumping class at 90cm open to all off-the-track thoroughbreds and their riders who are broadly involved in the thoroughbred industry – an industry that contributes over $9.1Billion annually to the Australian economy, in direct and indirect benefit.


The new showjumping event class intends to create an incentive and competition pathway for thoroughbred equestrian enthusiasts. At 90cm, the new competition class aims to be accessible and safe.


Magic Millions and the Queensland Off-The-Track (QOTT) Program are focused on creating exciting competitive opportunities for those who invest in the retraining of thoroughbred racehorses at the grassroots for equestrian disciplines.


“Those within the horse industry are the ultimate horse-lovers,” Magic Millions co-owner Katie Page-Harvey said. ‘We work with thoroughbreds whether it is in breeding, training, ownership or at the racecourse, but few people know that for so many of us we enjoy a life outside of work with retrained racehorses – showjumping, polo, dressage, and eventing.


“Horses are our 24/7 passion, and this new showjumping class is a chance for those passions to come together and be appreciated in a fantastic competitive environment.


“Opening it up to those 16 and over who have a connection to the thoroughbred industry is a huge participation group. We have deliberately chosen the height at 90cm in the first year, it is an accessible height, with the event developed to be fun, safe and exciting for those who love showjumping.” Ms Page-Harvey said.


“Vets, farriers, racehorse owners, breeders, strappers, horse truck drivers, farmers who grow feed, jockeys, pre trainers/ trainers and re-trainers.


“So many people you know have a connection to this vital industry. Our showjumping class is open to you all if you have an OTT to compete on.”


In total, there will be 15 finalists who will compete for a $50,000 prize pool at the inaugural Queensland Off-The-Track Cup on the Gold Coast at the Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo & Showjumping on Sunday, January 7.


With the support of QOTT and working with Darling Downs Jump Club in Toowoomba in November and Jumping NSW’s Sydney Summer Classic in December, Magic Millions is seeking to bring the entire industry together who share a love for the retired racehorse as a showjumper.


As a result, there will be two qualifiers conducted across the nation:

Queensland Off-The-Track qualifying round: Toowoomba, Darling Downs Jump Club November 26, 2023.


  • The top-eight finishers will qualify for the final on January 7, 2024.


Magic Millions Sydney Summer Classic qualifying round: Sydney International Equestrian Centre December 7 – 10, 2023.

  • The top-five finishers will qualify for the final on January 7, 2024.


Racing Minister Grace Grace said she was delighted to see Magic Millions and the QOTT Program partner to present such an exciting event. 


“The introduction of the Queensland Off-The-Track Cup to the Magic Millions Carnival is the perfect way to showcase our retired racehorses,” Minister Grace said.


“Thoroughbreds are incredibly versatile animals, who adjust quickly to new pursuits, and showjumping is just one of the many avenues they can pursue in their retirement from the racetrack.


“The polo and showjumping have become beloved events on the Gold Coast each year, and in January, we look forward to our retired racehorses taking centre stage and enjoying their post-racing careers.”


In addition to the 13 finalists from the Queensland and NSW qualifiers, a further two wildcards whose OTT meet the entry criteria will be issued:

  • A Magic Millions Racing Women’s wildcard announced on December 6, for a female industry participant with the highest fund-raising total for Equine Pathways Australia by (money raised by December 1, 2023); and
  • A surprise celebrity wildcard to be announced at the launch of the 2024 Star Gold Coast Magic Millions Carnival on December 1, 2023.


The QOTT Program was established in 2021 following the Martin Inquiry to provide a high-quality first transition for thoroughbred and standardbred horses from racing and breeding activities to retirement.


Since its inception, QOTT has launched five major initiatives including the Subsidised Lessons Program, the Acknowledged Retrainers Program, the Event Sponsorship Program, the QOTT Grants Program and the QOTT Clubhouse.


With the QOTT Program spending more than $1.3 million on its activities last financial year, more than $2.5 million is forecast to be spent in 2023-24.


QOTT Board Chair Dr Christine Johnson said they were thrilled to partner with Magic Millions to present the Queensland Off-The-Track Cup and to embrace the inclusion of a dedicated class for retired racehorses at the 2024 Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo & Showjumping.


“QOTT’s investment in equestrian sport has seen a strong demand for retired racehorses across the state which is pleasing to see, and also complements the work being done by the Queensland Off-The-Track Program and our network of acknowledged retrainers,” Dr Johnson said.


“The inaugural series will showcase the versatility and athleticism of thoroughbreds in one of the many pursuits that retired racehorses embark on in their life after racing.


“We’re looking forward to following the qualifying events and are particularly excited to watch the final here in Queensland as a celebration of all things equine at the Magic Millions Carnival.”


As an extension of this new showjumping class, Magic Millions is working with Equine Pathways Australia to demonstrate the combined priorities of the post-racing career of the thoroughbred and the welfare of both the horse and human.


Based in Victoria with services nationally, Equine Pathways Australia provide counselling assistance, support and rehabilitation to bring equestrian dreams to life for riders with an injury or disability. Equine Pathways Australia integrates appropriately retrained racehorses into their programs where possible.


The celebrity wildcard will donate their winnings to Equine Pathways Australia.


“For our inaugural event, Magic Millions will fundraise on behalf of Equine Pathways Australia towards the acquisition of an elite dressage competition horse to potentially enable a para-dressage rider to represent Australia at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games and beyond. This is a first step in what we hope will be a program which will be a game changer for Australian para-equestrians as they campaign towards the 2032 Brisbane Paralympic Games.” Ms Page-Harvey said.


Warren Moore, EPA Chairman, said, “We are proud to partner with Magic Millions, QOTT and the Queensland Government. The EPA program provides para-athletes, of all abilities, a welcoming and supportive community around the country, where everyone shares each other’s journey to their ‘gold medal moment.’ That moment may be on the international stage, achieving a personal best, or even just riding again. The love of the horse is what we all have in common.”


Julia Battams, founder and program executive manager of Equine Pathways Australia said, “This partnership will have long term benefits for the entire Australian para-equestrian community. There will be riders learning about this today who now know a pathway exists for them to fulfil their dreams. I can see Australians on a podium on the world stage leading to Brisbane in 2032. It would be magic for an OTT to be a para-athlete’s much-loved partner on that journey.”


The prize money breakdown is:

1st       $10,000                      2nd      $8,000

3rd       $6,000                        4th       $5,000

5th       $4,000                        6th       $3,500

7th       $2,500                        8th       $2,000

9th       $2,250                        10th     $1,750

11th     $1,500                        12th     $1,250

13th     $1,000                        14th     $750

15th     $500


For those interested in entering the Queensland and NSW qualifying rounds for the Queensland Off-The-Track Cup the conditions for entry are available here.



For details on when entries open follow Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo & Showjumping on Facebook or Instagram.

Truckie's Tips Lead to New Addition

By Stacey Silver • April 10, 2025
Most people will seek advice from trainers or owners when bringing a retired racehorse into their care.  But for Tamara Janus, it was a conversation with a horse transport truck driver that convinced her she had picked up a good one. Tamara signed on to be a Queensland Off-The-Track Acknowledged Retrainer earlier this year, having already been involved in the QOTT Program as an Approved Coach. The latest addition to her Upper Caboolture property has come in the form of retired racehorse Wairere Falls. The thoroughbred was trained by Chris Waller and raced at Flemington, Rosehill, Eagle Farm and Doomben over an almost five-year career that netted close to $600,000 in prizemoney. The gelding recorded six wins and 19 placings from 65 starts, having his last race at Eagle Farm on December 28 last year. Tamara said a conversation with Grandview Park Stud had led her to pick up Wairere Falls, but it was when the eight-year-old arrived at her property in mid-February that she knew she had made the right selection. “It’s always the same truck driver from Sydney Horse Transport - I think it’s the third or fourth horse I’ve had through Chris Waller, and every time, this truck driver has always got a little tidbit for me,” Tamara said. “He was two hours late arriving, so I thought ‘oh gosh he’s going to tell me that the horse is terrible at loading,’ or that he’s got all these problems. “I said, ‘oh apparently he’s pretty quiet?’ and the driver said, ‘quiet? This is the quietest thoroughbred I’ve ever met!’ “He told me even the 75-year-old lady who helps at Chris’ stables every morning and brought him to the truck said, ‘this thing’s just a real pet, you’re going to love him.’ “It’s always nice to hear that sort of information from people that do see them, especially the guy that transports them to and from the track quite often - he’s got a little bit more insight and I think he likes to have a chat!” Wairere Falls, who is called “Saint” around the property, has taken to his new life like a duck to water. Tamara said he had made the transition from the track to trail riding with ease. “Most of the country racehorses that I’ve taken out on trails are a little bit more used to it coming from the bush but for a horse that’s raced on mostly city tracks, he’s just going ‘oh this is great’ – he was looking through the trees and bush, and he was loving it,” Tamara said. “He’s great through all his obstacles, he is really good on his flat work, just super willing, and probably the most sensible off-the-track city horse I’ve taken out to a trail. “It’s still only early days, but the plan is to get him out to the local club that does competitive trail rides, and the local dressage club too.” Kicking off her riding career at Pony Club at just three years of age, Tamara achieved dressage success as a teenager and turned her focus to natural horsemanship, where she developed a passion for breaking in young horses and retraining older horses. Her love of training horses then turned into a full-time business 12 years ago, when she started TJ Equine. She has also competed in the Australian Brumby Challenge at Equitana, Coonamble Colt Start, Winton to Longreach Endurance Ride and Race to Ranch at Cowgirls Gathering, and competes regularly in dressage, agricultural shows, competitive trail rides, working equitation and team penning. In that time, she has retrained around 20-30 off-the-track horses for clients, but these days focuses on only having around one or two horses in her care at any single time. The 35-year-old explains how she decided to step back slightly from her busy workload, before signing up for the QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers Program. “A couple of years ago I went, I can’t do training and coaching and everything because I was just stretching myself too thin - I’ve got two young kids as well and thought I’m just going to really focus on the coaching side,” Tamara said. “As much as I love it, I just got the itch to do a bit of training again, and I didn’t want the constraints of having clients horses in and not being able to go anywhere. “So with the QOTT Program, I’m able to pick a horse, do a little bit with it, help it along its journey, and I’ve always had a thing for the off-the-track horses.” Since commencing as a retrainer, Tamara has taken on five retired thoroughbreds to retrain and rehome under the QOTT Program. She is also looking to retrain standardbreds as well while working as part of the program. “When a lot of people look for a horse, they don’t want a thoroughbred or a standardbred, but I think once they meet one, they change their opinion of it,” Tamara said. “They have such great work ethics coming from the racing industry - they have had a job and a career…they tend to be willing to go towards another vocation. “When they first come in, they don’t show a lot of personality but after one or two months, they’re like ‘this is who I am’ and we go from there. “I think it’s very rewarding and it gives me a bit of purpose because I do like giving back - it’s nice to do something to help horses along the way so they’ve got a future no matter where they go.”

TBQA Supports Flood Appeal

April 3, 2025
Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association would like to show our support to the embattled farming families and communities throughout Western Queensland who have been affected by the recent devastating floods. As farmers ourselves, we know the devastating impact this will have on the livelihoods of so many people for many years to come, because even after the initial cleanup, there is the rebuilding of property, livestock and crops. Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by this disaster, we hope our donation to Rural Aid helps in some way. We would also like to encourage our members to donate either financially, or through fodder, horse rugs and equipment. The TBQA is supporting Rural Aid and you can find more information about them here https://www.ruralaid.org.au/ but there are many other worthwhile organisations that are seeking donations. Thank you for your generosity and support.

Understanding Pregnancy Loss

April 3, 2025
Each thoroughbred breeding region has unique characteristics, so it is crucial to have accurate information specific to each state. Information acquired from the Australian Stud Book indicates that pregnancy loss is highly variable across breeding regions. To address this pressing issue, it is essential to obtain state-specific information to assist breeders to reduce pregnancy losses. In determining how best to reduce pregnancy losses, it is important to understand the size of the problem, at what time of year losses occur, at what stage of the pregnancy most losses happen, the major causes of losses, and the influence of the environment on the mares. Work investigating pregnancy losses in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales, completed in 2021 as part of AgriFutures Australia project The pathology and epidemiology of equine pregnancy loss (PRJ-011719), delivered interesting and unexpected results that breeders and their vets can use to plan how to reduce pregnancy losses. To improve the quality of the information collected, this project will continue the case-control study undertaken in that initial project and investigate Queensland studs as well as those in the Hunter Valley that participated in the earlier work. If you would like to participate in the study, that is being undertaken by Dr Joan Carrick, please contact her on joan@equinespecialistconsulting.com Find out more in the information brochure here

Les Young Scholarship

April 3, 2025
Calling individuals aged 18-25 passionate about a career in the thoroughbred industry. Applications are now open for the Les Young Scholarship, offering an opportunity to shape your career and undertake an international course at The National Stud in the UK. Learn more & apply here: The 2025 Les Young Scholarship | AgriFutures Australia

AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Advisory Panel Chair

April 3, 2025
Applications close 12 noon (AEST) 14 April Passionate thoroughbred breeding industry professionals wanted: Applications now open for AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Advisory Panel Chair. AgriFutures Australia is seeking a suitably qualified industry representative to join the AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Advisory Panel as Chair. This exciting opportunity is open to thoroughbred breeders, industry professionals, equine veterinarians and/or researchers who have an interest in contributing to the profitability and sustainability of the thoroughbred breeding industry. Learn more and apply here: Advisory Panel Recruitment | AgriFutures Australia

Look At Us Now

March 23, 2025
The Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association is very proud to unveil our new logo. This is the first time since the TBQA was established in 1949 that we have upgraded our branding. The logo was launched at the March Magic Millions Yearling Sale Welcome BBQ on Sunday, 23 March. This new look makes the TBQA easily identifiable and relatable. It's sleek, fresh and modern but we were very conscious of maintaining some of the tradition of the organisation and keeping the horse's head which was synonymous with our original logo, along with our maroon and gold colours - after all we are Queenslanders! Thank you to Ryan at Monocreative for working closely with the TBQA to create our new look. 

Own the Morning

March 20, 2025

Hore-Lacy Appointed CEO of TBA

March 20, 2025
Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) and Aushorse have appointed Andrew Hore-Lacy as its next Chief Executive Officer. Following a comprehensive international search, Hore-Lacy, who currently is the head of horse racing at the Seven Network, emerged as the preeminent candidate to lead both organisations, owing to his vast experience and profound knowledge of the thoroughbred industry. In his role at Seven, Hore-Lacy leads a team of 15 full-time staff, responsible for the creation, development, and production of all horse racing-related content and programming. His tenure at the network has been marked by a series of innovative and successful initiatives that have significantly enriched the network's horse racing portfolio. Aushorse Chairman Antony Thompson said Hore-Lacy’s previous experience and passion for the industry made him the ideal candidate for the role. “Andrew has an authentic commitment for the entire racing industry and a deep understanding of the breeding sector's pivotal importance, alongside the many challenges faced by breeders. His robust background in communications, media and stakeholder engagement equips him with a diverse array of skills. We are excited to welcome him as the new CEO of Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and Aushorse,” Thompson said. “I am confident that Andrew will leverage his expertise, leadership acumen, and strategic foresight to not only advance the interests of TBA and Aushorse on both domestic and international stages but also to reinforce Australia's vibrant and robust breeding industry, which is revered globally.” TBA President Basil Nolan said the selection panel had been impressed with Hore-Lacy’s energy and commitment to building on the programs and initiatives run by TBA and Aushorse. “Andrew demonstrated a clear understanding of the work undertaken by the team, particularly in areas of education and training, as well as marketing initiatives such as the Investor’s Guide. He conveyed a compelling vision for enhancing these established foundations, and I am confident he will introduce innovative perspectives that will enable TBA and Aushorse to continue to thrive,” Nolan said. Before his appointment as Seven’s Head of Horse Racing, Hore-Lacy distinguished himself as a Senior Producer across a spectrum of sports, including AFL, horse racing, tennis, and the Olympic Games, further underscoring his versatile and comprehensive expertise in the sports and media industries. Hore-Lacy thanked the TBA and Aushorse boards for the opportunity. "I am honoured to take on the role of CEO and lead these organisations into the future,” Hore-Lacy said. “Working for Seven for 15 years has been an incredibly rewarding experience, filled with personal growth, meaningful challenges, and the opportunity to collaborate with an incredible high performing team. "I believe that the thoroughbred industry is a vital part of Australia’s cultural and economic fabric. My goal is to foster growth and innovation, ensuring that we continue to thrive both domestically and internationally. “I look forward to getting started and building upon the strong foundation laid by Tom Reilly and driving these organisations forward to new heights.” Hore-Lacy will succeed Tom Reilly, who was appointed CEO of the Melbourne Racing Club in January. Both Thompson and Nolan gave thanks to Reilly for his work leading the organisations for a decade. “It’s important to state how grateful I am to Tom for his work. Under his leadership the TBA started a host of education and training initiatives that have worked wonderfully,” said Nolan. Thompson added: “Tom has really driven the breeding industry forward in many areas. From an Aushorse perspective, he has really given the Australian industry huge recognition on the international scene and we’ve seen significant international investment as a result. I am sure he will do a great job at the MRC and everyone wishes him all the best in the future.” Hore-Lacy will commence his role with TBA and Aushorse in June.

All Roads Lead to Rocky in April

March 13, 2025
The Rockhampton Jockey Club’s annual Capricornia Yearling Sale (CYS) will be delivered Sunday 13 April at the Showground’s Robert Schwarten Pavilion, in the heart of the Beef Capital City. The Sale will be preceded by the Capricornia Yearling Sale Race Carnival on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 April. Exclusive to Sale graduates, the two main races are the 2YO Classic with prize money of $168,000* while $118,000* will be on offer for the 3&4YO Classic. Over the two-day carnival, connections will compete for over $640,000* in prize money. (*Including QTIS bonuses). The $30,000 Country Cup will be raced on Friday, while the $30,000 Mayor’s Cup is an integral part of the Saturday program. And at 11.00am on Sunday 13th April, the first of around 110 thoroughbred yearlings will go under the selling agent Magic Millions auctioneer’s hammer. Friday evening is a standout highlight of the weekend calendar, delivering excitement and anticipation with the Classic Race Calcutta in the Members Lounge. In response to feedback from owners and key stakeholders, the event will be even more thrilling this year with the addition of a second Calcutta, focusing on the contenders of the 3&4YO Classic. The highly anticipated night will provide a competitive atmosphere and opportunities to get involved in the action and excitement of the two marquee CYS races. This year there is likely to be strong representation from the racing hubs outside of Rockhampton and Central Queensland with Classic race starters expected to come from far and wide. At the Sale, thoroughbred nurseries and hobby breeders will be represented from all parts of Queensland, and Northern New South Wales. With a proud history spanning over 37 years, the Capricornia Yearling Sale remains one of the few Yearling Sale-Race concepts conducted by an Australian race club. Thanks to the expertise and support of the Magic Millions team, the event continues to thrive as a key date on the racing and breeding calendar. Don’t miss out – mark your calendar to make tracks to Rocky in April! www.callaghanpark.com.au/racing/capricornia-yearling-sale/

Magic Millions Yearling Sale Postponed - March 24

March 5, 2025
Magic Millions advise after careful consideration the Gold Coast March Yearling Sale will be delayed two weeks. Due to ongoing weather implications the decision has been made as early as possible to provide certainty to all stakeholders and participants. The 2025 Magic Millions Gold Coast March Yearling Sale will now commence on Monday March 24 and concluding on Tuesday March 25. The start times on both days will revert to 11am (Qld time). "The two week delay will be required so the sale can be held safely on the Gold Coast," Magic Millions Managing Director Barry Bowditch said. "We want to be able to provide certainty to all of those involved in the auction with Cyclone Alfred approaching the South East Queensland coast." "Magic Millions will always place safety for our participants and horses first and while changes will always create issues, this delay is necessary." "We thank our breeders, vendors, buyers and all other parties for their understanding at this time and we wish all people in the affected areas the best over the coming days." Latest forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology predict gale force winds and substantial rainfall for the Gold Coast region over the coming days. The Gold Coast March Yearling Sale will be now held a week following the Adelaide Yearling Sale (March 17 and 18).
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