Raceday careers are essential for the smooth running of race meetings across all three racing codes—Thoroughbred, Harness, and Greyhound. With over 330 race meetings held annually in Tasmania, these careers form the backbone of a successful race day while prioritising the well-being of patrons, race animals and the people working with them.
Barrier Attendant
On race day, a barrier attendant helps maintain the safety of horses and jockeys behind the gates. They load horses into the barriers, provide assistance in calming nervous runners, check that the correct gear is fitted, and refit any gear that may become damaged or loose.
Casual Positions During peak racing times
A number of casual positions are also often required. These include roles such as car park attendants, ticket sellers, gate attendants, food and beverage staff, and promotional staff. The length of employment will vary between different race clubs; however, the experience will help you learn more about the racing industry, providing race day experience and the opportunity to meet people within the industry.
Clerk of Course
The clerk of the course is a highly skilled rider who monitors and assists horses and jockeys in safely getting to and from the barriers at the start. They also assist in catching and holding horses during emergency situations.
Clerk of Scales
The clerk of scales oversees the pre-race weighing out and weighing in of jockeys to ensure they carry the correct weight during the race.
Gate Attendants - Greyhounds
Gate attendants are responsible for kennelling dogs on race day, managing the catching pen area, manning the gates to the catching pen and directing participants on behalf of race day stewards
Greyhound Attendant
A greyhound attendant is responsible for kenneling a dog pre-race, acting as a catcher, and managing the general care of the greyhound under the trainer's instruction.
Greyhound Catcher
After each race, the greyhounds stop in an area called the catching pen. Once they reach the pen, a catcher greets them, puts a collar and lead on them, and escorts them off the track into the kennels. This role provides an excellent opportunity to learn about greyhound racing and build connections with trainers who may offer employment.
Harness Driver
Harness drivers require a high level of skill to drive a two-wheeled sulky while being pulled by a horse during a race or trial at high speed around a trotting track. Unlike jockeys, there are no weight restrictions for this role, allowing drivers of various sizes to compete.
Jockey
A jockey is a skilled rider who competes in horse races, following riding instructions from trainers and owners while using strategy and quick decision-making to guide their horse to victory. The role requires physical fitness, adherence to weight restrictions, a strong understanding of racing rules and techniques, and a passion for horses. Jockeys are often freelance riders, working with various trainers and race teams.
Judge
A judge on race day is responsible for advising the stewards of the official placings for each race. They work closely with the photo finish operator to make the final determination of the race's placings, ensuring accurate results are provided.
Lure Driver
In greyhound racing, a mechanical lure travels ahead of the greyhounds on a rail until they cross the finish line. The person who operates the lure, known as the 'lure driver,' sits above the track and is instructed to keep the lure within clear sight of the leading greyhound throughout the race.
Photo Finish Operator
Photo finish operators are responsible for operating the photo finish software, determining the margins and times run by each animal, and producing the official photo finish to confirm race results.
Race Caller
A race caller’s role is to commentate each race on race day. they requires excellent memory and quick thinking to remember the names of greyhounds, horses, and their jockeys or drivers while commentating live. With races unfolding rapidly, they must quickly distinguish between competitors and recall their histories, forms, and characteristics.
Starter / Mobile Driver
The starter plays a crucial role on race day, ensuring that every horse is given a fair start. In harness racing, the starter is assisted by the mobile driver, who is responsible for driving the mobile during trials and on race day. In thoroughbred racing, the starter oversees and manages the opening of the barriers, ensuring that all horses are properly positioned before the race begins.
Strappers
A strapper plays a vital role in the care and preparation of the horse on race day. They are responsible for grooming the horse before the race, helping to saddle the horse, and leading it in the mounting yard. After the race, they wash the horse down, ensure it is properly cooled down, and assist with presenting the horse for swabbing and any required veterinary checks. The strapper ensures the horse is comfortable, well-cared for, and ready for each stage of the race day process.
Track Curator and Staff
The racetrack is a vital element of racing, and much of the track staff's time is dedicated to ensuring the race surface remains in optimal condition. Roles involved in maintaining the track include greenkeepers, curators, lawnmowers, and gardeners, all working together to manage the turf and track environment. Their efforts help create a safe and fair racing surface for both horses and greyhounds, contributing to the success of every race event.
Steward
Stewards are likened to the police of the racing industry. They are responsible for enforcing the rules and regulations that ensure the integrity and welfare of racing. They play a crucial role in maintaining a fair and safe environment by investigating any potential breaches of conduct, monitoring activities on race days, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Their work helps protect the interests of both participants and animals, promoting trust and transparency within the racing community.