Thoroughbred – Stewards’ Inquiry – Trainer Dennis Barker

RWWA Stewards today conducted an inquiry into a report received from Senior Investigative Steward, Mr Paul Criddle following his attendance at the registered training address of Mr Dennis Barker in Orange Grove.

Evidence was taken from Mr Criddle, RWWA Industry Veterinarian, Dr Judith Medd and Mr Dennis Barker.

Mr Barker pleaded guilty to the following three (3) charges:

Charge 1.
ARR 175 (p) for failing to comply with a requirement of the Stewards in that the stable fencing at his property was in a state of disrepair and required immediate attention. Mr Barker was subsequently fined the sum of $1000 with $500 of this amount being suspended for a period of two years.

Charge 2.
ARR 175 (o) (iv) for failing to provide proper and sufficient nutrition for two horses under his care resulting in them becoming below average in body condition. Mr Barker was fined the sum of $5000 with $2500 of this amount being suspended for a period of two years. In assessing this penalty, Stewards took into account the seriousness of the offence, his guilty plea and very good record over a considerable period of time.

Charge 3.
ARR 175 (q) for improper conduct for failing to have a farrier attend to the feet of a horse under his care which were in poor condition. A fine of $1000 was imposed with $500 being suspended for a period of two years.

As a result of these three offences, Mr Barker was fined a total of $7000 with half of this amount being suspended for a period of two years on the condition that he does not reoffend during this time.

Media Contact:
Brad Lewis – Chief Steward Thoroughbreds
Ph: 9445 5420
brad.lewis@rwwa.com.au