Harness Stewards Inquiry – Trainer Peter Anderson
As advised previously, Racing and Wagering Western Australia’s (RWWA) Stewards concluded an inquiry which commenced on 12 March 2020 concerning two incidents involving trainer Mr Peter Anderson and driver Miss Deni Roberts, which was alleged to have occurred at the Byford training track and at Mr Anderson’s registered stables on 11 February 2020.
Mr Anderson was found guilty on 28 May 2020 of the following charges:
- Charge 1: Misconduct – $500 fine
- Charge 2: Assault – 12 months disqualification
On 12 June 2020, Mr Anderson was granted a Stay of Proceedings from the Racing Penalties Appeal Tribunal (RPAT), after receiving submissions from the Stewards and Mr Anderson’s counsel.
RWWA’s Stewards opposed the Stay, however mindful of the challenges in listing matters which may delay the appeal being heard expeditiously, Stewards submitted that if the RPAT were of a mind to grant a stay, it should be subject to conditions.
In determining to grant the Stay, the Chair of RPAT, Ms K Farley SC issued the following orders:
- The Stay is granted with the welfare of the horses in Mr Anderson’s stable in mind, together with the need to protect the health and wellbeing of Miss Roberts and Mr Anderson.
- Furthermore, the chairperson has issued the following orders:
- The Appellant is to file and serve his appeal grounds and submissions by close of business on 19 June 2020.
- Stewards are to file and serve their response by close of business on 26 June 2020.
- Mr Anderson is not to contact, or attempt to contact, Miss Roberts, either directly or indirectly, until this matter is finally determined. Mr Anderson is not to approach within 50 metres of Miss Roberts at any race meeting where they may both be present.
RPAT is an independent judicial forum to hear appeals against penalties imposed in disciplinary proceedings arising from or in relation to the conduct of racing in WA.
The matter is expected to be listed for hearing in the weeks commencing 29 June and 6 July.