IMPORTANT INFORMATION - MEDICATION CONTROL PROGRAM

When does swabbing happen?
The Medication Control Program in Queensland can occur at:

• all selection or qualifying events for Championships or Finals;
• at least once a year at official events that are run regularly (meaning at least six times a year);
• any EA event or competition that holds “graded” competition;
• any EA affiliated club/body that holds “graded” competition;
• any EA Official Measuring Day (or Out-of-Competition Testing);
• Upon any horse that dies/ has to be euthanised at an EA Competition; and
• For all classes with prize money totalling more than $2,000 or with a first prize of $1,000 or more (for at least one horse or three percent of horses taking part, whichever is the greater), excluding FEI events.

Event Planning
The Event Organiser is required to plan for the following:-

• Access to a “swabbing box” or similar facility in which samples can be collected at the event.  Where possible the box is to be in a quiet and private area, clean and have access to fresh water and a supply of clean straw or sawdust.
• The method of selection of horses may be random, targeted or for the purpose of FEI events, obligatory. This decision is made in consultation with the Ground Jury and the Veterinarian. The Swabbing Steward is not involved in the selection of horses for drug testing.
• The Event Organiser is not responsible for the costs incurred in the selection. 

Member Requirements

• The MCP Steward will supervise the selected horse from the moment the person responsible  (PR) is notified.  The horse may be offered food and water, may be hosed down, and have its tack removed.  However, the PR must present the horse to the swabbing area as soon as possible for sample collection.
• The identity of the horse should be confirmed in the best way possible.  This would be through members supplying their horse life or base registrations papers.  Should the paperwork be absent, or the horse is not registered the MCP Steward will use the EA MCP Horse ID form .

Any questions regarding MCP in Queensland can be directed to on (07) 3891 6611 or email [email protected]