Racing Victoria (RV) wishes to advise of changes to the biosecurity protocols in place in Victoria to allow for the safe continuation of racing and training during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The protocols, which were developed in accordance with all current Government directives, guidelines and advice, have served to protect the health of industry staff, participants and the wider community; maintain 25,000 full-time equivalent jobs; and ensure daily care and exercise can be afforded to all thoroughbred racehorses.
The protocols are continually reviewed based on Government directives, risk analysis, industry compliance, participant feedback and the broader community landscape.
New South Wales Border
The Victorian Government has announced that from midnight tonight a permit system will be in place for all New South Wales Residents travelling to Victoria, residents from other states travelling through NSW and Victorians visiting NSW and returning home.
More information about the permit system and the application form will be available shortly via the DHHS website https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/.
The Northern Beaches of NSW are now considered a COVID Hotspot and any licensed participants or owners who have spent time on the Northern Beaches on and from 11 December 2020 will not be permitted to attend any Victorian racecourse or licensed premises until they have completed 14 days self-isolation upon arrival in Victoria. Licensed participants will also need to obtain permission from the Stewards before attending any Victorian racecourse or licensed premises.
Acting in an abundance of caution, any licensed participants who have spent time in Greater Sydney on and from 11 December 2020 are advised to contact the Stewards immediately as they will be required to submit a negative COVID test before being permitted entry to a Victorian racecourse or licensed premises.
As has been the case throughout the pandemic, transportation of horses from New South Wales (and other states and territories) to Victoria is allowed provided the horses are transported by an approved float company (as set out in Racing Victoria’s protocols) and is permitted by any Government regulations which are in force at the time.
RV will continue to monitor the situation in Sydney closely and will make changes to industry protocols as required.