The New South Wales Trainers’ Association (NSWTA) has vowed to take “stern action” if the Australian Turf Club (ATC) sees through its plans to increase stable rent by 10 per cent.
News Corp understands that trainers who rent boxes at Randwick, Rosehill and Warwick Farm have been verbally advised by ATC officials of the move which is yet to be ratified at board level.
In response to the proposed increase, NSWTA Chairman Richard Pegum said plans are well underway to oppose the rent hike on behalf of the association’s hardworking Australian Turf Club member-based trainers.
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“As an association we cannot and will not accept the unreasonable increase proposed,” Pegum said.
“If the ATC persists with the move we will have no choice but to consider stern action in response.
“If we are backed into a corner, we will act decisively and collectively. Owners will stand alongside their trainers.
“We need to ensure our position is properly heard and respected.”
NSW Trainers’ Association Chairman Richard Pegum.
Pegum said he has had recent discussions with newly appointed ATC chair Tim Hale about the matter which will ultimately lead trainers – and by extension owners – shouldering an additional load.
“At a time when cost of living continues to rise and when owners are already leaving the sport, it is troubling that the ATC would seek to impose further financial strain on those who sustain racing at its core,” Pegum said.
“Trainers and owners are being asked to shoulder an additional burden precisely when stability and encouragement is needed most.
“It is most disappointing that the ATC CEO is yet to engage with our trainers directly to better understand the situation.”
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It was back in 2013 that NSW metropolitan trainers were last in a standoff over the ATC’s then plans to increase rent and track fees at Randwick by 25 per cent.
At the time, then NSW Trainers’ Association boss Steve McMahon submitted a new proposal for consideration “in line with inflation” before a compromise was ultimately reached with ATC officials.
McMahon now finds himself on the opposite side of the fence as the ATC’s head of membership and corporate affairs but as was the case in 2013, remains integral to finding a way forward.
Pegum said he remains hopeful a resolution can be reached.
The famous Leilani Lodge stables at Randwick now under the management of Ciaron Maher.
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“If the ATC’s concerns relate to the broader funding model of NSW racing, that is a matter for discussion with the regulator,” Pegum said.
“If the club seeks the support of trainers in those conversations we stand ready to assist.
“But attempting to resolve such issues through price hikes will only erode goodwill and weaken support from those who matter most.
“We strongly urge the ATC to step back from this decision and develop a plan that strengthens racing for all stakeholders.”
In 2024, the ATC received $12.4m in training revenue, up from $11.6m the year prior.
Core expenditure for ‘tracks and training’ last year was $20.5m, up from $19.2m in 2023.