Thoroughbred Stewards Inquiry Stablehand Miss Emily Quartermaine
On Friday 12 October, 2018 RWWA Stewards resumed the inquiry into the alleged posting of material on social media by licensed person Miss Emily Quartermaine, to determine whether that constituted a breach of any rules of racing.
At the inquiry Miss Quartermaine was found guilty to a charge under AR175(q) with the particulars of the charge being that as a licensed person, Miss Quartermaine did, in the opinion of the Stewards, engage in misconduct by posting on her Facebook page, which contains references to racing and racing related issues, material that was obscene and offensive.
After considering submissions on the penalty, Stewards determined to impose a fine of $2,000 with $1,000 of that fine suspended for a period of two years on the condition that she did not incur any other misconduct related offences.
In determining the penalty Stewards took into account:
- Her previous good record
- Past cases involving breaches of RWWA’s social media policies and related rules
- The need to send a strong reminder to all licensed persons that serious penalties can arise if they engage in posting material or comments that are contrary to the to the RWWA Social Media Policy
Stewards wish to remind licensed persons that they have an important responsibility to at all times conduct and present themselves in a professional and proper manner.
High standards are expected of licensed persons who have the privilege of a licence and are thus ambassadors of the industry. They must therefore ensure that when posting material on their social media platforms that contain references to racing and racing relating issues that such material is not offensive to any persons or likely to tarnish the image and reputation of the industry. Stewards will continue to take appropriate action when required in these matters.