A celebration of dedication: The Stud and Stable Staff Awards

The Stud and Stable Staff Awards provide a formal platform to honour excellence, showcasing individuals who may never seek the spotlight yet profoundly shape our industry. More than a trophy or cash prize, these awards represent a moment of enduring recognition, encouraging growth, confidence, and pride.

The act of nominating is as meaningful as winning. It shows someone that their work matters, and their contributions are seen and valued. It might be a stable hand whose meticulous care makes all the difference, or an office administrator who ensures every detail runs smoothly.

Presented by Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and Racing Australia, with principal support from Godolphin, the 2025 Awards offer seven categories, each recognising different areas of excellence:

• Leadership Award (Stud or Stable) — Sponsored by the Victoria Racing Club
• Horsemanship Award (Stud or Stable) — Sponsored by Inglis
• Dedication to Breeding Award — Sponsored by Magic Millions
• Dedication to Racing Award — Sponsored by the Australian Turf Club
• Administrative and Ancillary Services Award — Sponsored by Yulong Stud
• Thoroughbred Care and Welfare Award — Sponsored by Queensland Off-The-Track
• Newcomer Award (Stud or Stable) — Sponsored by Hunter Thoroughbred Breeders and Thoroughbred Breeders NSW

Each category winner receives a $10,000 prize (except the Newcomer Award winner, who receives $5,000), while runners-up are awarded $3,000. The pinnacle is the Overall Excellence Award, which honours extraordinary contributions to the industry and includes an additional $5,000 prize.

Victoria Racing Club (VRC) Chairman Neil Wilson highlights the importance of the awards.

“The Australian Stud and Stable Staff Awards recognise some of the most passionate and dedicated people in thoroughbred racing and breeding. The VRC is proud to support our industry’s unsung heroes through the sponsorship of the Leadership Award and look forward to congratulating the finalists for 2025.”

Hazel Fertier, the 2024 Overall Excellence Award winner, captured the essence of the event perfectly: “These awards are an amazing opportunity for the many unsung heroes of our industry to receive much-deserved gratitude. It’s vital to recognise all those who devote their lives to thoroughbreds. Just being nominated is fulfilling – show your staff how much you appreciate their efforts and take the time to nominate them!”

The road to recognition begins now. Nominate today

• Nominations open: 6 January 2025
• Nominations close: 17 February 2025
• Shortlist announced: 12 March 2025
• Finalists announced: 2 April 2025
• Awards ceremony: 26 May 2025 — QT Hotel, Gold Coast