The Tasmanian harness racing industry is currently embroiled in a scandal involving allegations of doping, race fixing, and concerns about animal welfare. A parliamentary inquiry investigating these serious accusations has revealed shocking details that have sent shockwaves through the industry.

During the inquiry, whistleblower Janet Ainscow disclosed disturbing information, claiming that horses were administered cocaine before races to enhance their performance. She also highlighted instances of race fixing and breaches of racing regulations within the industry. Ainscow further stated that several individuals within the racing community had confided in her about various illicit activities, indicating a pervasive issue that needed urgent attention.

One specific allegation involved Nathan Ford, who was accused of applying cocaine to horses sublingually before races. These revelations have raised significant ethical and legal concerns, prompting calls for a thorough investigation by Tasmanian Labor. The party has urged the police to delve into the matter to uncover any criminal activities that may have taken place.

Furthermore, Ainscow shed light on text messages exchanged between prominent figures in the industry, suggesting collusion to fix races. The inquiry also unveiled disturbing images showing horses with injuries standing in mud, underscoring the importance of upholding animal welfare standards in racing.

The scandal has cast a shadow over the integrity of harness racing in Tasmania, with industry insiders emphasizing the need for stringent measures to address such misconduct. The dominance of certain stables in the racing scene has also raised concerns about fair competition and the prevalence of unethical practices.

In response to these revelations, Minister for Racing Jane Howlett refrained from commenting on the specifics of the allegations, citing ongoing investigations and legal proceedings. However, the Tasmanian Labor Party has underscored the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the necessity of a thorough probe to uphold the integrity of the sport and hold accountable those involved in illicit activities.

As the inquiry continues to unravel the extent of the scandal, the harness racing industry in Tasmania finds itself at a critical juncture, grappling with the fallout of these damaging revelations. The need for transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct within the sport has never been more pronounced, signaling a pivotal moment for stakeholders to address systemic issues and restore public trust in harness racing.