A Midura harness racing trainer who continued to be involved in the industry despite being banned over a post-race blood sample taken from one of his horses will now have to serve another year’s disqualification after VCAT overturned a decision to let him off with a fine. 

Harness Racing Victoria began an investigation late last year, finding evidence Mr Andrew Vozlic continued to conduct activities, which relate to equine hooves care, for a number of trainers in the Mildura and Ouyen regions.

He was serving a five-year disqualification at the time after a post-race blood sample from his horse Our Girl Dolly in 2011 showed a plasma total carbon dioxide concentration higher than allowed. 

The HRV Racing Appeals and Disciplinary (RAD) Board in October found that although it was a serious offence, unusual circumstances meant a $2000 fine was appropriate. 

HRV RAD Board chairman Tony Burns at the time said Mr Vozlic was a “fine practitioner” and there was very limited opportunity for local horse people in the Mildura region to find quality farrier services. 

But HRV stewards asked VCAT to review the decision.

VCAT acting president Judge Felicity Hampel this week set aside the fine and ordered Mr Vozlic serve another 12 month period of disqualification. 

She noted the importance of deterrence for him and the wider community, along with the significance of integrity to the harness racing industry.

Judge Hampel ordered that the 12-month period of disqualification start in December, which is at the completion of his current period of disqualification.

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By Daniella White

Reprinted with permission of The Sunraysia Daily