Greyhounds – Stewards Inquiry – Mr John Graham
20 April, 2016
Greyhound
RWWA Stewards have now completed their investigation into the mating of RAPID OCTANE and TINA’S DILEMA on 18 January 2016, by Public Trainer Mr John Graham.
Mr Graham was issued with three (3) charges by letter dated 7 April 2016 as a result which were;
Charge1 – Local Rule 125 (8) for engaging in the act of breeding greyhounds for racing purposes by mating RAPID OCTANE and TINA’S DILEMA on 18 January 2016, without holding a valid Greyhound Breeding License.
Charge 2 – Rule 127 (6) for using TINA’S DILEMA for breeding purposes by mating her to RAPID OCTANE on 18 January 2016, without her being registered as a breeding female at that time.
Charge 3 – Rule 128 for failing lodge the completed registration form (Notice of Service) with RWWA, within 14 days from the RAPID OCTANE x TINA’S DILEMA mating that occurred on 18 January 2016.
Mr Graham pleaded guilty to all charges. In respect to penalty the Stewards determined the following to be appropriate for each charge:
- Charge 1 – $700 fine
- Charge 2 – $500 fine
- Charge 3 – $200 fine
The appropriate penalty in total, is a fine of $1400
In consideration of penalty, Stewards were mindful of the following;
- The circumstances and seriousness of the offences.
- Mr Graham’s professional and forthright manner.
- Mr Graham acknowledgement of all offences in the first instance.
- The importance of a responsible breeding program and the relevant rules being adhered to
- The offences were all of a negligent nature, rather than deliberate
- General deterrence.
Further, pursuant to Rule 138 (5), three (3) puppies from the litter will be DNA tested, at Mr Graham’s expense, upon completion of ear branding. These will be chosen by the Stewards. Pending the correctness of the DNA analysis, the entire litter can then be registered for racing purposes with RWWA. Mr Graham will in addition have to complete the program to obtain a Breeding License retrospectively.
Media Contact:
Carlos Martins – Chief Steward Greyhounds
Ph: 9445 5220
carlos.martins@rwwa.com.au