Changes to COVID testing and vaccination records
COVID testing protocols in racing are being amended in line with lower rates of virus infection and reduced isolation periods.
Fewer COVID cases, the cut to isolation time from seven days to five and high vaccination rates have combined to significantly bring down the risks to both the continuation of racing and individual health.
Racing and Wagering Western Australia has reviewed the management controls and will cease mandatory race day Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) from 1 October 2022 for drivers, jockeys, stewards and other race-day staff whose roles are vital to the proper conduct of racing.
Stewards reserve the right to direct any person currently liable to testing who shows COVID symptoms to take a RAT test. In addition, for the peace of mind and safety of all, RAT testing of those taking RWWA charter flights will continue due to the close confines of travel.
RWWA will also continue to provide free RAT tests on request in the months ahead, while supplies last.
Personal diligence is still vital and everyone should take a RAT test before attending races if they have COVID-like symptoms or are a close contact.
If a significant outbreak occurs, RAT testing may be resumed without notice to protect health or safeguard the continuation of racing.
RWWA previously employed an organisation called CredShare to record vaccination information, which is no longer required.
Anyone who would like CredShare to delete their information can simply email hello@credshare.com from the email address linked to the account. In the subject line, state: Close account. CredShare will delete the information.
We continue to encourage everyone to keep track of the WA Government advice at wa.gov.au/government/covid-19-coronavirus.