Fast Track applications open

Applications are open for the Thoroughbred Breeders Australia flagship ‘Fash Track’ program that sees some 90% of trainees now with thoroughbred careers.

“Walking around the Magic Millions sales a few weeks ago it was great to see so many of our past trainees working for farms,” said Tom Reilly, the TBA Chief Executive.

“A number of those had no horse experience before starting on the program, and those who may not have found their way into the industry otherwise.”

“Fast Track offers anyone with a passion for horses the opportunity to begin a career with thoroughbreds, regardless of their background or level of hands-on experience.”

Now in its seventh year, the program has proved a successful pathway with a great of those trainees continuing to work in the industry after completing the course.

The 12-month course targets people from outside breeding and racing and introducing them to Australia’s thoroughbred sector in providing them with foundational skills.

Developed in response to industry staffing shortages, it acknowledges those who need to build successful careers with a nationally recognised formal qualification.

Open to 18 years and over, the successful applicants have a full-time paid traineeship with a stud farm while studying Certificate III in Horse Breeding, and ideal for a career change.

To complement on-the-job learning, students attend two intensive learning blocks in Scone of six weeks in total where they receive a mix of practical training and classroom theory.

In addition, trainees will take part in a variety of field trips and personal development workshops in giving future employers insight to what the Fast Track program will bring them.

TBA’s education and projects manager Madison Tims is eager to see the program continue to grow and is calling for anyone interested in taking on a trainee this year to get in touch.

“It was really exciting to have our first ever trainees based in Western Australia and Tasmania last year and to keep the numbers on the course and have farms mentoring people.”

“Employers around the country have embraced the program with the 2023 intake of 18 trainees placed in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania.”

“The experience of taking on a trainee has been rewarding and beneficial to our team,” said Bhima Thoroughbreds’ Kate Fleming, “and encouraging young people into our industry.”

“Without Fast Track finding, training and bringing young staff into the industry would be much more difficult, and it’s a great way for the young people to get a taste of the industry.”

“I’d absolutely encourage farms to get involved in the program, as it’s a great way to gain fresh new staff with the added bonus of you helping to grow and strengthen our industry.”