A new pathway for young people to enter the thoroughbred industry has been established with Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) launching a graduate program.
The scheme will give university- leavers the opportunity to learn from some of the biggest names associated with racing, breeding and wagering. Those accepted on to the course will undertake a two-week learning block based at Flemington racecourse, before starting an internship with a major employer.
Among the companies supporting the program are Entain, Godolphin, Waterhouse and Bott Racing, Magic Millions, Melbourne Racing Club, Inglis, Yulong and the Victorian Racing Club.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone hoping to work in the thoroughbred industry,” says TBA chief executive Tom Reilly.
“We have a huge industry, employing around 80,000 people, but until now there hasn’t been a pathway in place for us to try and recruit talented young people who can progress into leadership roles. The aim of the learning block is to open the graduates’ eyes to all aspects of the industry and show them the different career options open to them.”
The learning block will feature lectures and workshops on everything from creating a wagering market, selecting a yearling, though to marketing a racing carnival and learning how the handicapping system works.
In the UK the British Horseracing Authority has run a highly successful graduate program for 30 years, with many executives across the industry having completed the course.
TBA aim to attract 10-12 graduates in the first year, with the learning block starting in late January 2025. After this fortnight, graduates will join an employer for a paid internship of at least six weeks.
Entain Deputy CEO and CFO Lachlan Fitt said: “This program offers young people a unique chance to see every side of the racing industry, from breeding to race-day operations to wagering. At Entain, we know the value of fostering new talent, and this program is a real game-changer for anyone serious about a future in thoroughbred racing.”
He added: “In today’s industry, hands-on experience and mentorship from leading organisations are key to building the next generation of racing professionals, and that’s exactly what this program offers.”
Another supporting the initiative is Australian training legend Gai Waterhouse, who is well known for mentoring young people. She said: “We have to keep looking at how we bring young, talented people into the industry and I think this is a wonderful way to do it. We are very much looking forward to having somebody join our team on their internship.”
The graduate program builds on TBA’s established education and training programs, such as the national breeding traineeship, Fast Track, and TBA Learning, a free online platform that has more than 1,000 students enrolled on its courses.
“I’m very grateful to Kylie Rogers and the VRC for jumping on board and providing space for the learning block. I’m sure being based out of Flemington will be inspiring to the graduates,” added Reilly.
Applications are open now and can be completed at tbaus.com.
Those applying need to have graduated in 2024 or 2023.
