Greyhound stewards’ inquiry – trainer Tim Mullany
On Wednesday 2 March 2022, Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) Stewards conducted an inquiry into the alleged posting of material on social media by Licensed Trainer Mr Tim Mullany.
After receiving a report from RWWA Senior Investigator Mr Geoff Johnson and hearing submissions, Mr Mullany pleaded guilty to the following two charges and was issued the penalties as indicated.
Charge 1
AR 86 (f) (iii) with the particulars of the charge relating to;
Engaging in improper conduct by publishing on his Facebook page an image, which was contrary to the provisions of the RWWA social media policy as it was disrespectful and had potential to bring racing into disrepute.
Penalty
$2,000 fine with $1,000 suspended for a period of twelve months on the condition that no further offences arise.
Charge 2
AR 86 (f) (iii) with the particulars of the charge relating to;
Engaging in improper conduct by publishing an image to other licensed persons, which was contrary to the provisions of the RWWA social media policy as it was disrespectful and had potential to bring racing into disrepute.
Penalty
$2,000 fine with $1,000 suspended for a period of twelve months on the condition that no further offences arise.
The total fine payable therefore being $2,000.
In determining penalty Stewards took into account, amongst other things:
- Mr Mullany’s immediate acknowledgement of the matter as reflected by his plea of guilty to both charges.
- His prior record and history in greyhound racing.
- Previous penalties in relation to offences of this nature, the majority of which had attracted fines.
- That individuals, whether licensed or not, did not have the right to post material that is potentially defamatory or otherwise injurious to other individuals or groups.
- That licensed persons had an obligation to comply with the Rules of Racing and RWWA Social Media policies, which these postings had breached.
- The need for the industry to maintain a positive image so as to ensure its future sustainability which posts of this nature had potential to bring into disrepute.