Education and training/entrance requirements

You can work as a horse trainer without any formal qualifications and get training on the job. Some horse trainers begin by being a stablehand and gain experience working in stables under experienced trainers. Entry to this occupation may be improved by obtaining a formal qualification in racing.

You can complete a traineeship. The advanced stablehand or trackrider traineeships usually take 36 months to complete.

You can also complete a Certificate III in Racing (Advanced Stablehand). The course is offered at TAFE Colleges and other registered training organisations throughout Australia.

Did You Know? Black Caviar (foaled 18 August 2006) is an Australian Thoroughbred racehorse undefeated in 25 races, a success record not equaled for over 150 years. She is considered to be the best sprinter in the world,having been named WTRR World Champion Sprinter in 2010. On 31 March 2011 Black Caviar was rated one of the top Thoroughbred racehorses in the world (with a 136 rating) for the first quarter of 2011 by Timeform. She was trained by leading Melbourne-based trainer Peter Moody. (Source: Wikipedia) Black Caviar with Queen Elizabeth after winning the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot (Source: WebArchive Moody Racing) "Peter Moody today is one of Australia's leading trainers - the conditioner of the world's highest-rated galloper Black Caviar and the man who trained the 2009/10 Australian Horse of the Year Typhoon Tracy. And besides the champs, he has dominated the Victorian training ranks in the past two years, coming from a Caulfield base of only eight horses a decade ago to break a 32 year domination of the Victorian Trainers Premiership in 2009/10 by the Hayes clan and Lee Freedman. Moody’s rise has been meteoric and dynamic. So much so that rival trainers are agog with his success, work ethic and ability to churn out winners from maidens to Group 1 winners. His extensive apprenticeship has paid dividends as he has drawn on experiences gleaned working for the legendary Tommy Smith and Colin Hayes and his 10 years as Queensland foreman for Bill Mitchell." (Source: WebArchive Moody Racing) The Conversation 20 August 2024 Did You Know? In the build-up to mighty mare Winx’s third successive Cox Plate (Saturday 28 October 2017), it was a respectful Chris Waller (Trainer) who was asked to compare his champion with Black Caviar. “Black Caviar was undefeated (25 races), she went to Royal Ascot and won, and did it for a number of years,’’ Waller said. “She was a shorter distance horse, Winx wins over longer distances. How do you deny Black Caviar being the greatest?’’ “Winx is an outstanding champion,’’ Moody said. “I’m not one for comparisons but you are never going to get an argument from me that she is as good as we’ve seen. “I was fortunate to see Frankel at Royal Ascot in 2012, I saw Makybe Diva win her third Melbourne Cup, I lived the dream with Black Caviar but seeing this mare, Winx — she is phenomenal. “I think we have been unbelievably blessed this century to have seen Makybe Diva, Black Caviar and now Winx.’’ Waller’s super mare has been unbeatable for more than two years now and is rewriting the record books with virtually every win. Winx’s third successive Cox Plate equals the legendary Kingston Town’s achievement of 1980-81-82. This was her 22nd consecutive win and she is edging closer to Black Caviar’s extraordinary record of 25 wins in a row. Winx has forged her reputation primarily at a distance range of 1600m to 2000m while Black Caviar was a sprint sensation who only ever raced beyond 1200m once in her career. (Source: News.com.au) After stepping away from training in 2016, Peter Moody returned to the fold in 2020—refreshed, re-focused, and ready to re-establish his presence in the modern era. His comeback was both timely and impactful, and in 2022, he officially partnered with Katherine Coleman, a gifted horsewoman who had already proven her value within Moody’s operation. (Source: Blueblood thoroughbreds)

A person who operates an independent business with responsibilities for quality outputs, supervising staff, coordinating groups, planning and developing strategic initiatives, and operating in a wide variety of contexts, most of which are complex and non-routine.   

The racehorse trainer at this level differs in degree of complexity and responsibility from a licensed owner trainer. The scope of operation, complexity and size of the business require higher-level skills,   particularly in the technical, planning and management areas. The trainer at this level would train for  outside owners, would generally have a large training establishment, employ several or many staff, often operate interstate and/or internationally and have extensive demands from owners, media and public.

Knowledge, skills and attributes
   
A thorough knowledge of rules of racing and business practice is an essential requirement for trainers. The trainer at this level is required to evaluate information for planning and research purposes and apply theoretical concepts to a range of situations. They must be professional, expert horseman with high levels of knowledge of equine anatomy and physiology to ensure that all animal welfare needs are met.

The supply of livestock is an essential part of the racing industry. Trainers are required to act for owners in advising on the purchase of livestock. This involves knowledge of pedigree, conformation and animal physiology as well as the rules relating to partnerships and syndication.

Duties and Tasks

Thoroughbred trainers may perform the following tasks:

• carry out practical daily tasks such as saddling, bridling, feeding and grooming horses
• accustom horses to racing equipment such as reins and harnesses, hitches and sulkies (two-wheeled carriages)
• teach apprentice jockeys, drivers and riders horse riding techniques and horse handling methods
• supervise and direct stable staff, jockeys, sulky drivers and other workers
• plan, supervise and carry out training programs for horses
• plan and select race programs to achieve the best placing for a horse
• plan, supervise and carry out nutritional programs for horses
• monitor the health of the horses and consult veterinarians on injuries and ailments
• advise and consult with horse owners
• attend race meetings or other horse-related events
• keep accurate records of accounts and use correct credit procedures.

Education and training/entrance requirements
   
Mandatory Training:

Licensed Categories	Mandatory Skill-set Required
General A	Diploma in Racing (Thoroughbred Trainer)
General Trainer	Diploma in Racing (Thoroughbred Trainer)
Restricted Trainer	Certificate 4 in Racing (Thoroughbred Trainer) (Source: Racing Victoria)

Employment Opportunities
   
The Thoroughbred Racing Industry is the third largest employer in Australia. There are a large number of job opportunities in all regional and metropolitan areas throughout Australia and wide reaching opportunities globally. (Source: Racing Victoria)

 

 

Syndicators purchase horses, typically at public auction, then put together groups of owners to race it together. A Syndicator makes their money by putting a margin on the shares or charging an on-going management fee. This occurs when they sell the shares and this information must be declared within their Product Disclosure Statement (PDS). By being transparent they ensure integrity. They also manage the communication between the trainer and owners whom they have sold shares to for the racing career of the horse.

Syndicators help match horses with owners, giving those owners the thrill of a lifetime in the process. From identifying horses to purchase, attending yearling auctions, selling shares, liaising with trainers and attending race days, the life of a syndicator can be varied or highly specialised.

 

Knowledge, skills and attributes       

Syndicators will either need to have good knowledge of horse selection, or work closely with a bloodstock agent. Experience in the industry and an enjoyment of communication is essential.

Duties and Tasks

A professional Syndicator is responsible for purchasing a racehorse and syndicating shares to members of the public. They may be aligned with or work closely with trainers who collaborate with them on conformation and breeding. They need to hold an ASIC issued AFSL or be an Authorised Representative holder under an AFSL as you must have the correct licensing to be able to legally advertise shares in a racehorse.
A syndicator’s tasks include selecting a horse, finding interested potential owners, completing all paperwork (including legal requirements for ASIC), and communicating with the trainer to give owners updates on the horse. Syndication companies typically have junior co-ordinator roles, responsible for client liaison, marketing and administration tasks.

Working conditions

There are strict guidelines around the selling of racehorse shares that a Syndicator must adhere to under the Australian Rules of Racing - these are enforced by the Principal Racing Authority (PRA) Syndication Compliance Officer who works with the Stewards Department within each state as well as communicating with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) on behalf of the PRA in its role as Lead Regulator.

Education and training/entrance requirements

There is no set pathway to becoming a Professional Syndicator however you do need to have a strong knowledge of racing and breeding, horse conformation, communication and business skills as well as an understanding of the Corporations Act, ASIC Corporations (Horse Schemes) Instrument, financial skill set for reporting requirements plus the associated Federal Law requirements in relation to Anti-Money Laundering. It is a highly competitive area and is a difficult business to tap into as consumers are drawn towards proven success.

 

Did You Know? Racehorse Syndicator - Adam Watt Cameo The horseracing industry brings to mind images of stables, race days, and jockeys. But in the background an equally important role is being conducted of the racehorse syndicator. Syndicators help match horses with owners, giving those owners the thrill of a lifetime in the process. From identifying horses to purchase, attending yearling auctions, selling shares, liaising with trainers and attending race days, the life of a syndicator can be varied or highly specialised. Adam Watt - Syndicator You could be like Adam Watt, Business Development, Sales and Marketing Manager of Dynamic Syndications, Australia’s leading Thoroughbred Syndications Company. This is your perfect job if You have a passion for racing or sport, enjoy interacting with other people, and have some marketing flair and an entrepreneurial spirit. What is a typical day? Like a lot of jobs in sport, no two days are the same for Adam. Not only is the work varied, it also takes him to all corners of Australia. ‘Whilst 80 per cent of my week is spent in the office creating marketing campaigns, fielding enquiries and managing our thoroughbred portfolio, I do also attend trackwork two mornings a week to watch our horses work and take footage for our owners. ‘I attend the races regularly to meet and greet our clients and live out of a suitcase for the first few months of the year attending yearling sales. Throw in frequent visits to the breaking-In farms, spelling farms, pre-trainers, and liaising with our trainers and 2000 owners – it is a pretty busy schedule!’ What’s the best part of the job? ‘We have had a lot of success winning some of Australia’s biggest and best horse races. However, the highlight would have to be the joy I see on owners faces when their horse wins. The adrenalin rush they go through and the joy that it brings not just to them but their entire family and friends is a great feeling.’ How do you get there? While an interest in racing is almost a must, this can be combined with education in business, marketing, sport and event management to give the perfect grounding for the role. A graduate of UC’s Sports Management degree, Adam credits much of his success on the variety of his educational experiences. ‘The broad range of topics we covered throughout the degree gave me a good grounding and foundation for working life. My degree helped me create time-management skills to successfully complete multiple tasks on time.’ Advice from those who have been there before ‘Love what you do. The racing game consumes your entire life. Horses don’t know what day of the week it is and given that we race seven days a week in Australia you need to love your job and surround yourself with people that will support that.’ ADAM WATT Bachelor of Sports Management, University of Canberra (2011) Adam Watt graduated with a Bachelor of Sports Management from the University of Canberra in 2011. He has completed several internships including with The Magic Millions Sales and Australian Rugby Union. Adam currently works as the Sales & Marketing Executive for Dynamic Syndications. (Source: University of Canberra Syndicator)

 

 

 

 

Horse Breakers are responsible for educating young horses in the fundamentals required for them to begin training. The breaker will familiarise them with wearing bridles, being under a saddle, having a rider on their back and walking through barriers. It is not breaking horses but educating horses.

A pre-trainer plays an important part in a racehorse’s career both at the beginning and throughout his career. A Pre Trainer usually works in with full licenced Racehorse Trainers and is responsible for conditioning and preparing horses for racing after they have been out in a paddock spelling.

Once arriving to the Pre-Training stables after sales, normally the yearlings have a few weeks rest in the paddocks to let the whole experience of the sales soak in. Then once settled in they come in to the stables to begin their training. This process usually takes 4-6 weeks depending on the trainability of the horse.

A Pre-Trainer is responsible for the conditioning of horses prior to them going into the racing stables of a licensed trainer. The reason for this is so the horses head to the trainer with a solid foundation of fitness so the trainer is able to focus on the more serious conditioning which prepares them for racing. It is also financial beneficial for owners to utilise the services of a Pre-Trainer for fitness grounding each campaign as the costs are lower than those associated with the thoroughbred being in the racing stables of a licensed trainer.

ANZSCO ID: 361112
   
Alternative names: Pre-Trainer

Knowledge, skills and attributes

Pre trainers must have excellent horsemanship skills and considerable experience working for trainers and in stables before setting up their own establishment.

• passionate and love horses

• reliable

• driven individual with thorough attention to detail

• a positive attitude

• good work ethic

• patience

• Current Drivers Licence

(Source: Racing Victoria)

Duties and Tasks

• Educating yearlings in the fundamental training required for each horse to begin their racing career

• Ensure all horses receive the highest quality of care and maintenance - where the horses feel safe and comfortable

• Assist with general stable hand duties on a daily basis

• Ability to communicate effectively and work in a team environment

• Compliance with all organisational policies, procedures and processes and legislative standards and requirements

• Train horses in brushing up on those barrier skills, gaining some more fitness on the treadmill, rehab work in the water walker, teaching balance and responsiveness through dressage training on the arenas or engaging their brain over some jumps.

Working conditions

Horse Breakers are generally self employed - an advanced level of horsemanship is required to handle young inexperienced horses. Most breakers would have experience working as a stablehand or higher prior to moving into this field.
  
If there is a large number of horses to be educated, there might be a Breaking in Manager to report to.

 

Tools and technologies

Educating yearlings in Australia
https://youtu.be/orV-Q_sJLYE (22mins)

 

 

Jump Out Horse - Staff Stories | Hokenheim
https://youtu.be/4hX_Q0CMPc8

 

 

Education and training/entrance requirements

Pre-Trainers have extensive horse handling and training knowledge, they would have worked as Stablehands or held a trainers license in the past. Prospective pre-trainers must undertake the following certificates and diploma.

Diploma in Racing (Thoroughbred Trainer)
Certificate IV in Racing (Racehorse Trainer)
Certificate III in Racing (Advanced Stable hand)

 

 

 

A horse trainer’s right-hand person, the assistant trainer ensures everything runs smoothly from managing the staff to saddling horses at the races. The assistant trainer is responsible for implementing the exercise and training routines set in place by the trainer. Often they provide initial training contact with a young or troublesome animal and they are instrumental in creating a foundation of general etiquette and manners.

Some assistants are 100 percent in charge of a large string of 30 or more horses and report to the trainer on progress and important information several times a day. Most of these assistants work for trainers who have several strings at other racetracks and therefore they only make it to see each group of horses periodically. They rely exclusively on their assistant to communicate any and all important details about the horses ability and soundness. Other assistants work for a trainer who stays at one home base track and they work hand-in-hand, sharing the barn responsibilities.

Assistant Trainers often represent the Trainers at races – saddling, dealing with owners, passing on Jockey instructions, and handling general PR. For many Assistant Trainers this is a stepping stone to becoming a Trainer.

 

ANZSCO ID: N/A

Knowledge, skills and attributes

This is a position which benefits from a strong teamwork ethic, the ability to follow instruction and a firm knowledge of horses. Understanding training methods and the ability to learn in a situational atmosphere are key ingredients to a successful assistant trainer.

Did You Know? Assistant Horse Trainer - Sam Freedman - CAMEO Sam is the youngest son of Anthony Freedman. He has grown up around the stable and has a strong passion for the horse racing industry. After completing his secondary and tertiary education, Sam travelled to England to play cricket. During his time overseas, Sam spent two years working for leading European trainer Roger Varian as his pupil assistant. At Varians, Sam was fortunate enough to work closely with leading international galloper Postponed as well as other Group 1 winners Belardo, Ajman Princess, Sheikha Reika and Ajman Princess. Sam returned to Australia in October 2017 to re-join his father’s stable bringing with a wealth of knowledge from his time overseas and an eagerness to continue building on what he has learnt. Sam brings fresh ideas to the business as well as enthusiasm to build on the success of the stable. Sam joined his father in a training partnership at the beginning of the 2020-21 racing season and celebrated his first winner at Sale on August 13 with Criminal. (Source: Freedman) Sam and Anthony trained the Melbourne Cup winner of 2023 See all the Melbourne Cup winners on Frank Rey's page

 

Duties and Tasks

Assistant trainers also help plan horses’ training schedules, communicate with owners, run satellite operations outside the main stable and keep everyone on task. Many assistant trainers go on to become trainers.

Assistant duties include making the set list, communicating with the vet, blacksmith, dentist, and bookkeeper, entering horses to race, recording workout times, doing paperwork, checking legs and feet for signs of injury, checking feed tubs for missed meals, paddock schooling upcoming runners, saddling for the race, managing grooms, hot walkers, and riders, and scheduling workouts and races with agents and jockeys.

• Implementing exercise routines and schedules developed by the trainer

• Following supplement and stable vet schedules

• Basic under saddle work

• Ground work

• Training in general horse manners and correcting behavioural issues

• Managing all owner communication on behalf of the Head Trainers

• Management of equine tracking technology and analysing results

• Representation of the stable on raceday

• Duties can be interchangeable with barn foreman & stablehand duties

Working conditions

Assistant trainers work between 50 and 100 hours a week. They are first to arrive at the barn in the dark early morning hours and last to leave after sundown.

Education and training/entrance requirements

This is a position which can rely more on experience than formal schooling. Generally a high school diploma is required and previous experience working with horses is highly valued.

While there are no formal qualifications required to become an assistant horse trainer, a Certificate IV Trainer (from the RGR08 National Training Package) or equivalent, is required to become a fully licensed trainer.

An Assistant Trainer has to be a natural horseperson, but their passion for horses and the industry can exceed their current level of knowledge around the training component itself. They will have a thirst for learning about all areas of the business and a willingness to work hard and adapt to change quickly. Attention to detail, organisation/time management and strong written and verbal communication are essential skills, as is being a people person and having the ability to influence others and work well in a team. Understanding new technology will be core to the role, so a tech savvy individual with prior experience in the use of technology in horse training will be highly regarded.

 

Equine massage is a type of therapeutic massage designed specifically for horses. It involves using various techniques to manipulate the soft tissues of the horse’s body, such as the muscles, ligaments, and tendons, to promote relaxation, improve circulation, and relieve pain and tension.

Therapeutic application of hands-on massage techniques for the purpose of increasing circulation, relaxing muscles, relieving tension, enhancing muscle tone and increasing range of motion.

Equine massage can be used to help maintain a horse’s overall health and well-being, as well as to address specific issues or injuries. Some benefits of equine massage may include an increased range of motion, improved performance, faster recovery from injuries, and reduced stress and anxiety.

A qualified and experienced practitioner should only perform equine massage, as incorrect or inappropriate techniques can cause harm to the horse. Ensuring the horse is properly warmed and cooled before and after the massage session is also essential.

 

(Source: The Vet Expert)

ANZSCO ID: 4116
  
Alternative names: Equine Massage Therapist, Massage Therapist, Equine Myofunctional Therapist,

Specialisations

Several techniques are used in equine massage therapy, each with its own specific benefits and applications. Here are some of the most common techniques used in equine massage:

• Effleurage: This technique involves long, sweeping strokes to warm the muscles and increase circulation. It is typically used at the beginning of a massage session.
  Petrissage: This technique involves kneading and compressing the muscles, which can help to release tension and increase flexibility.

• Myofascial Release: This technique involves applying sustained pressure to specific areas of tension or restriction in the muscles and connective tissue, helping to release adhesions and improve mobility.

• Trigger Point Therapy: This technique involves applying pressure to specific points of tension or muscle pain, helping to release knots and reduce pain.

• Stretching: This technique involves gently stretching the muscles and connective tissue, which can help to improve flexibility and range of motion.

• Joint Mobilization: This technique involves gentle movements of the joints, helping to increase mobility and reduce stiffness.

• Acupressure: This technique involves applying pit point pressure to specific points on the horse’s body that are believed to have therapeutic benefits, such as reducing pain or improving digestion.
  

Knowledge, skills and attributes

Massage therapists spend their time working with animals who are experiencing pain, which leads to a high stress level. This requires quiet confidence and the ability to remain calm, be patient and soothe the nerves of both patients and their owners. This is a position which benefits a high degree of practical knowledge & experience, intuitive independent thinking and a responsible attitude.

A gentle nature, a genuine love of the animal and the ability to learn on your feet are essentials for being a great equine massage therapist.

• A calm, compassionate and reliable nature

• An adequate level of fitness to manage the physical demands of working with horses and handling related equipment

• A passion and enthusiasm for horses and their welfare

• Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) at a Year 10 high school level

 

(Source: The Vet Expert)

Duties and Tasks

• Handling a variety of animal temperaments

• Assessment & rehabilitation following injury

• Development of treatment plan & goals

• Use of massage and mobilization techniques

• Advise regarding injured athlete animals in training

• Immediate first aid & health concerns

 

(Source: The Vet Expert)

 

Did You Know?   It’s not just the jockeys who need to relax after a tough race – horse physios, chiropractors and masseuses all help relieve the horses’ muscles.   Deryn Rowe got into horse massage after 30 years in the (human) fitness industry. ‘I was getting bored,’ she recalls. ‘I had a bit of an interest in racing so I did an equine sports massage course, which took about 12 months.’ Rowe loves seeing the difference a good massage can make. ‘They nudge you or stick their leg out showing you where they’re tight – it’s amazing how interactive they are,’ she says. (Source: Deakin University)

Tools and technologies 

Equine massage therapists use their hands, fingers, and elbows to apply pressure and knead the muscles, similar to human massage therapy. They may also use tools such as rollers or massage balls to target specific areas of the horse’s body.

 

 

Did You Know? Equine massage is a therapy that can provide a range of benefits for horses. Some of the acute effects of equine massage include the following: * Increased Circulation: Massage helps to stimulate blood flow, bringing fresh O2 and nutrients to the tissues of the horse’s body. This can help to promote healing and reduce inflammation. * Improved Range of Motion: Equine massage can help to loosen tight muscles and improve flexibility, allowing the horse to move more freely and comfortably.    * Pain Relief: Massage can help release tension and reduce muscle and soft tissue soreness, relieving pain and discomfort. * Stress Reduction: Horses, like humans, can experience stress and anxiety. Equine massage can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels in horses.    * Improved Performance: By addressing muscular imbalances and promoting relaxation and flexibility, equine massage can help to improve a horse’s performance in activities such as racing, jumping, or dressage. Overall, equine massage can be a valuable tool for maintaining the health and well-being of horses, as well as for addressing specific issues or injuries. It is crucial to work with a qualified and experienced practitioner who understands the unique needs of horses and can provide safe and effective massage therapy. (Source: The Vet Expert)

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a Horse Masseur, you need a Certificate III in Horse Care from TAFE. It is a good idea to know an experienced Horse Masseur to learn all their knowledge.

 

 

 

Related Jobs or Working with these Jobs

Jobs involving Horses

 

 

 

Materials sourced from
Jobs & Skills WA [Horse Trainer; ];
Racing Victoria [ Thoroughbred Racing; Pre-trainer;]
Racing Jobs [Syndicator; Horse Breaker; Horse Breaker 2;  Pretrainer; Assistant Trainer;  ]
Equinest [Assistant Trainer; Horse Masseur; ]
Equine Therapies Association of Australia [Therapies; ]
Kolora Lodge [Breaking in; Pre-Training; ]
Thoroughbred Industry & Careers [Assistant Horse Trainer; ]
SynNutra [Assistant Trainer; ]
University of Canberra [Syndicator;]
Thoroughbred Industry Careers [Syndicator; ]
The Vet Expert [Equine Massage; ]
The Whole Horse [Massage; ]
NSW TAFE [Horse care; ]
Your Career [Horse Trainer; ]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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