Are you interested in becoming a Queensland Off-The-Track Acknowledged Retrainer?

In January 2022, Queensland Off-The-Track launched the Acknowledged Retrainers Program. This initiative was developed in direct response to the Martin Inquiry and is part of a suite of programs that support a high-quality first transition for Thoroughbred and Standardbred horses from racing and breeding activities to retirement. The Queensland Off-The-Track Program is funded by the one percent prize money levy which has been implemented to support equine welfare initiatives in Queensland.

The process to become a QOTT Acknowledged Retrainer is thorough and all QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers are selected on their ability and experience in retraining Thoroughbred and Standardbred horses of all shapes, sizes, abilities, and temperaments. QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers tailor their retraining and rehoming programs to suit the individual requirements of each horse.

To ensure horses have the best chance of finding the most suitable post-racing homes, QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers objectively assess the suitability and character of each horse, provide them with the necessary education and retraining to assist them with their transition to a second career as a pleasure, therapy or performance horse, and rehome them accordingly, matching the horse to the skill and aspirations of a prospective owner, thereby ensuring each horse is best placed for future success in a new home.

Currently QOTT has 13 Acknowledged Retrainers and within the six months that the program has been operating, 17 horses have been retrained and successfully rehomed, with a further 13 horses currently in training with QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers. With proven ability to responsibly rehome horses at the end of the retraining process, QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers assist prospective buyers in the selection of a retired racehorse that is suitable for their level of experience and intended use.

There are many benefits in becoming a QOTT Acknowledged Retrainer including a $1,500 Equine Care Subsidy that reimburses QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers for eligible horse management costs, including veterinary, farrier, worming, vaccination and dental expenses incurred during the retraining process of each eligible horse.

Other benefits include a range of marketing and business support options, including the opportunity to advertise for free (online and print) in Horse Deals any horse that has participated in the QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers Program. A Retraining Transport Subsidy is also available to assist racing owners and trainers with transport costs associated with the delivery of a horse to a QOTT Acknowledged Retrainer.

QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers continue to operate their businesses independently to the QOTT Program and keep 100% of the profits made from the sale of each horse that they retrain and rehome on behalf of the QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers Program. QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers are required to retrain and rehome a minimum of two (2) eligible horses per twelve (12) month period.

Have a look at our current list of Acknowledged Retainers HERE and if you are interested in applying to become a QOTT Acknowledged Retrainer please contact us at [email protected]

We look forward to hearing from you and continuing to support our OTT horses in their lives post-racing.