New Rider Development Centre delivers major boost for Victorian Racing

Victoria's jockeys, trackwork riders and future racing participants now have access to a state-of-the-art training facility following the official opening of Racing Victoria's (RV) new Rider Development Centre earlier today.

The purpose-built facility was officially unveiled at RV’s Flemington headquarters this morning by the Minister for Racing, The Hon. Anthony Carbines, at a special ceremony attended by industry stakeholders, Australian Racing Hall of Famer Damien Oliver and members of RV's Apprentice Jockey Training Program.

The new Rider Development Centre represents an investment in the future of Victoria's riding workforce, providing a modern, inclusive and professional environment that champions wellbeing and high-performance development.

The facility has been designed primarily to support the development of riders across all stages of their careers, from the 25 trackwork riders currently completing their Certificate III and the 70 Rider Development Squad members through to senior jockeys and the 38 currently enrolled in the Apprentice Jockey Training Program.

Features of the centre include a dedicated mechanical horse room, fully equipped gym, physiotherapy and treatment rooms, and training areas that will enhance coaching and skill development.

RV Chief Executive, Aaron Morrison, said the facility would play a critical role in attracting and developing the next generation of racing participants, while also strengthening Victoria's reputation as a leader in rider education, welfare and development.

"The Rider Development Centre reflects the importance we place on creating meaningful pathways into our industry and supporting our riding workforce at every stage of their journey.

"Our riders are elite athletes and deserve access to facilities that assist in every aspect of their development, from technical riding skills and fitness to education and career progression.

"This centre provides exactly that and will not only help us to produce the next generation of champion jockeys and trackwork riders, but may also encourage young horse enthusiasts to consider a future career in racing.

"The Rider Development Centre is an important investment in the future of Victorian racing, and thanks to support from the Victorian Government we've been able to create a first-class facility that will deliver benefits for decades to come."

The Rider Development Centre will be utilised by a broad cross-section of the industry's current and future workforce and will help facilitate the continued provision of physiotherapists, sports psychologists, nutritionists and strength and conditioning coaches currently supporting the state’s jockeys of the future.

Beyond its rider development functions, the facility will also serve as a hub for industry education and collaboration, boasting a versatile space that can host stakeholder events and strengthen connections across the Victorian racing industry.

Part-funded through a contribution from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund (VRIF), the centre is expected to host hundreds of participants annually and further enhances RV’s comprehensive suite of Workforce Development Programs, which also include Stable Start, Pony Club Ride-To-Time and schools programs.

Minister for Racing, The Hon. Anthony Carbines, said the Rider Development Centre represents an important investment in the participants who will help drive the industry forward for years to come.

Minister for Racing, The Hon. Anthony Carbines, said the Rider Development Centre represents an important investment in the participants who will help drive the industry forward for years to come.

"We're proud to support projects that strengthen the Victorian racing industry and help maintain our state’s position as a leader in racing excellence.

"The Victorian racing industry contributes billions of dollars to our economy and supports thousands of jobs. Investing in facilities like this helps ensure the industry remains strong, sustainable and well placed for the future.

"The Rider Development Centre is a terrific example of industry and government working together to deliver lasting benefits for participants and the broader Victorian racing community."