Racing Victoria (RV) Chief Executive, Giles Thompson, has issued the following statement following the approval by RV stewards for the training partnership of Ciaron Maher and David Eustace to replace trainer Darren Weir at the Ballarat stabling complex formerly known as Forest Lodge with effect from today – Thursday, 7 February 2019:
“We trust this morning’s announcement by the Ballarat Turf Club and Ciaron Maher Racing will be welcomed by those staff affected by Darren Weir’s disqualification and provide them with greater certainty about their immediate working future after a challenging week.
“This is also a positive announcement for the Ballarat community, along with those local suppliers servicing the industry, that a major high-profile training combination in Ciaron Maher and David Eustace have moved swiftly to fill the void that has been left by Mr Weir.
“This also presents a viable option for those owners of Mr Weir’s who would like their horses to remain in their current training environment at Ballarat, where they can utilise the wonderful facilities of the Ballarat Turf Club.
“In granting approval of this application, the stewards have advised all parties that they will continue to closely monitor both the requirements of the transfer and the adherence of Mr Weir to the terms of his disqualification.”
In noting today’s announcement by the Ballarat Turf Club, RV understands that discussions remain on foot between Mr Weir, the Warrnambool Racing Club and members of the industry regarding the future of his Warrnambool stabling complex.