It has been a tumultuous week for racing as another scandal hits the headlines.
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But this one, involving leading trainer Darren Weir and the alleged use of jiggers to shock horses, hits right to the heart of the industry in Ballarat.
Already many renowned trainers have come forward and voiced their concerns about the reputational damage done to the wider industry and public perception.
So severe is fallout from the investigation that even the fairytale story of local girl Michelle Payne and her Melbourne Cup winning mount, that inspired so many young riders, has been called into question.
In recent years there has been too many scandals that have hit the integrity of racing; the cobalt saga, Smerdon and the tubing affair, but this one goes right to the core of a very important sector of Ballarat business.
You might say that not since the peptides affair that sank so many careers at Essendon FC or the Armstrong lie which blighted a decade of cycling, has a sporting scandal sent so many shock waves through the public. Sadly this is Ballarat’s very own story.
Moreover, even if you are not interested in the sport, the impact on the flourishing industry at Miners Rest is enormous. There are dozens of careers and large scale investments at stake in what until now has been an exemplary model of growth, expertise and professionalism.
For all involved let us hope its resolution is swift and comprehensive. The Courier will be there to keep subscribers informed.
For today at least here is some other reading which show our region, its people, it’s past and future in a different light. Enjoy.