Below are the types of race day careers available in Western Australian racing.
A judge on race day is responsible for advising the stewards of the official placings for each race. Generally extensive racing experience and knowledge of the industry is required for this type of job and consists of on the job training.
A race caller’s role is to commentate each race on race day. They provide commentary prior, during and post-race, as well as make other on course announcements throughout the day. No specific training is required for this type of position, however, training in public speaking and experience in broadcast is preferred.
A Clerk of Scales is prominent at the conclusion of every race when standing with the Chief Steward weighing Rider’s after a race (seen in action by all in the Melbourne Cup televised coverage of riders returning to scale) to ensure that correct weight was carried. Also weigh’s riders out before the race to ensure that all gear is recorded and accounted for at the correct allotted weight thus playing a central role in the operation on race day.
Recognised by their red jackets, the clerk of the course provides assistance to jockeys with getting their horses to and from the barriers.
These operate as clerks of course but also are skilled and qualified to catch loose harness horses should the driver fall form the sulkie. This is a highly skilled specialised job that requires a suitably trained horse. All Harness Catchers are assessed by RWWA prior to being allowed to undertake the role.
In order to keep the racing surface and the surrounds of the track in pristine condition, the race clubs employ track staff who attend to a variety of duties including surface preparation, maintenance of grounds and gardens, general repair services and overall upkeep of the grounds.
The racetrack is a vital ingredient of racing and the majority of the track staffs’ time is spent ensuring the race surface is in fine condition.
The track staff employ a range of people from different backgrounds including horticulturalists, greenkeepers, curators, lawnmowers and gardeners.
During peak racing times a number of casual positions are also often required. These include roles such as:
- Car Park Attendants
- Ticket Sellers
- Gate Attendants
- Food and Beverage Staff
- Promotional Staff
The basic skills required for the above casual positions are good customer service skills, computer skills and cash handling skills. The length of employment will vary between different race clubs, however the experience will help you learn more about the racing industry, giving you race day experience and the opportunity to meet people within the industry.
PERTH RACING SPRING CARNIVAL 2023
Click the link below to find out what roles are currently being recruited for as part of Perth Racings 2023 Spring Carnival Recruitment campaign.