Harness Stewards Inquiry – Trainer Dean Bielby (DARK FALCON)
Racing and Wagering WA (RWWA) stewards commenced an inquiry following investigations concerning the health and condition of registered standardbred DARK FALCON, on 28 June 2019.
Concerns were reported when the horse was brought on course at Narrogin Race Club to be conveyed to another trainer on Tuesday 8 January 2019.
At the inquiry, after hearing all evidence emanating from investigations into this matter, trainer Mr. Dean Bielby was charged under RWWA Rule of Harness Racing (HRR) 209. Particulars of the charge being that on two occasions he provided false information to RWWA stewards by stating that he had sought veterinary advice regarding DARK FLACON being unable to improve its body condition.
Mr Bielby admitted he had not sought such advice and subsequently pleaded guilty to the charge. The inquiry was then adjourned to consider penalty and further consider all evidence in the matter.
The inquiry resumed on 17 July 2019, where Mr Bielby pleaded guilty to a further charge issued under HRR 218. The particulars of the charge relating to him, as the registered trainer of DARK FALCON and having the horse in his care from late September 2018 until 8 January 2019, failing to care for the horse properly by not seeking veterinary advice in relation to its condition.
Stewards determined to apply the following penalties for these offences:
- Rule 209: $1,000 fine fully suspended for a period of 12 months on the condition that he does not again offend under this rule.
- Rule 218: 3 month disqualification effective 17 July 2019.
In determining penalty, stewards took into account, amongst other things:
- Mr Bielby’s personal circumstances and acknowledgment of both offences as reflected by his guilty plea.
- Previous penalties issued for related matters.
- That an inspection of his property by RWWA investigators found sufficient feed available to other horses on the property all of whom were in good condition.
- That DARK FALCON’s rating on the Henneke body scale was below what is acceptable, however was not a case of extreme malnutrition.
- The need for deterrence to reinforce and maintain the high standards of animal welfare which apply and are maintained within the industry as a whole.