Thoroughbred Breeders Australia’s Fast Track Applications Now Open

Applications for Thoroughbred Breeders Australia’s latest Fast Track program are now open, offering a pathway into the breeding sector and national Industry recognition.

“Fast Track is also unique in that the trainees are working on a farm, in receiving a wage, while also studying for a Certificate III” said TBA Education and Projects Manager Madison Tims.

“This course is great as it doesn’t matter whether you’ve experience with horses or not, as on this course you get a chance to learn skills from some of the best in the thoroughbred industry.”

“We’ve had people from all types of backgrounds on the program before who’ve gone on to great things with their career, and while being paid full time.”

“Developed in response to industry staffing shortages, the 12-month course targets people from outside breeding and racing and introduces them to Australia’s vibrant thoroughbred sector, while giving them the foundational skills and knowledge needed to build successful careers.”

“Now in its eighth year, the program has proved to be a successful pathway, with 90 per cent of trainees continuing to work in the industry after completing the course.”

In fact, it’s ideal for those looking for a career change, as previous student intakes have comprised electricians, a beauty therapist, an army veteran, a cafe barista, and a cricket coach.

Graduates have taken up management roles on thoroughbred farms, others in the Irish National Stud course, NH breeding and sales seasons, and graduates of Godolphin Flying Start.

Successful applicants commence a full-time paid traineeship with a stud farm while studying for a Certificate III in Horse Breeding – a nationally recognised formal qualification.

Students will also attend two intensive learning blocks in Scone, with a mix of practical training and classroom theory and participate in various field trips and development workshops.

Earlier in January, TBA announced the release of TBA Schools, a new educational hub designed for students and teachers that provides access to the Australia’s thoroughbred industry.

“This new program was designed to connect the industry with schools and students through the Australian school curriculum, giving teachers and parents the confidence that there are career pathways and opportunities for students to work with the horse,” said Madison Tims.

Designed with Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia it integrate multimedia content, real-world case studies, and cross-curricular activities that teachers can use across a range of subjects, including English, Geography, History, Science, Mathematics, Design and Technologies.

TBA Schools engages students in meaningful learning as these resources showcase the industry’s careers, sustainability initiatives, and the role of innovation and technology, offering practical insights into breeding-genetics, anatomy, nutrition, welfare, and performance management.

“These resources allow teachers from primary school through to Year 12 the ability to incorporate the thoroughbred industry in the classroom,” said Tom Reilly, TBA Chief Executive.

“TBA is grateful to all those who have assisted in this project and look forward to working collaboratively with other parties to ensure these resources are used,” Madison Tims added.

“We encourage all thoroughbred industry participants to engage with their local school communities through their children, peers and local teachers to use these resources to help teach the next generation of breeders.”