RGR30518 – Certificate III in Racing (Trackwork Rider) Non-Jockey

Why Study a RGR30518 Certificate III in Racing (Trackwork Rider) Non-Jockey?

Step Into the Racing Industry

Begin your journey toward becoming a professional jockey with this foundational qualification. You'll gain the core riding skills and industry insight needed to work confidently in racing stables and on the track.

Practical, Immersive Learning

Experience the thrill of learning through action. This course blends on-the-job training, in-person instruction, and online modules to give you hands-on experience riding thoroughbreds in pacework, jump-outs, and trials.

Recognised by the Industry

The RGR30518 Certificate III is nationally accredited and may be essential for licensing in certain states. Developed in collaboration with racing professionals, it reflects current industry standards and expectations.

Advance Your Career

This qualification opens the door to further study, including the Certificate IV in Racing (Jockey), and leads to exciting roles such as:

• Professional Jockey
• Racing Steward
• Race Starter
• Handicapper
• Racing Administrator

Grow Your Skills and Confidence

Sharpen your decision-making under pressure, improve communication with trainers and racing officials, and deepen your understanding of racing ethics and animal welfare.

Flexible Learning That Fits Your Life

Designed for working trainees, this course is delivered through a flexible blend of learning modes. It can be completed as part of an apprenticeship, with funding and concession options available to eligible students.

Key responsibilities:

Riding & Horse Management

• Ride thoroughbred racehorses during trackwork, jump-outs, trials, and official races.
• Handle horses safely in both stable settings and during training routines.
• Perform pacework and enhance advanced riding techniques.

Strategic Decision-Making

• Make quick, informed choices in high-pressure racing environments.
• Assess horse condition and suitability for races.
• Choose mounts based on performance metrics and race conditions.

Compliance & Professional Conduct

• Take part in racing protests, inquiries, and formal proceedings.
• Apply racing regulations and protocols with accuracy.
• Maintain high standards of ethics, integrity, and professionalism.

Communication & Media Representation

• Represent the racing industry in media interviews and public events.
• Communicate clearly with trainers, owners, and racing officials.

Personal Development & Career Planning

• Set and work toward individual performance goals.
• Prepare for self-employment, including managing finances and business operations.
• Use sports science to maintain fitness and enhance performance.

Animal Welfare & Safety Awareness

• Evaluate track and environmental conditions to support horse welfare.
• Provide care and training for thoroughbred horses in competitive contexts.

Duration

Course duration nominal:

• Full time: 24months
• Part time: 48months

Note: The actual duration can vary depending on the following, study mode (full-time, part-time, or flexible), recognition of prior learning, and individual progress.

* Licensing may affect individual duration

Delivery mode

• Blended Learning – combination of on-the-job training, face to face and e-learning.

Course Specifics

This qualification prepares individuals for a career as trackriders, covering both practical riding skills and theoretical knowledge necessary for success in the racing industry.

The course includes substantial on-the-job/practical training, focusing on riding techniques, race preparation and fitness management, ensuring you are well prepared for the demands of race day.

Course details & Units:

11 Core + 7 Elective = 18 Total Units

Core Units (11)

An asterisk (*) next to the unit code indicates that there are prerequisite requirements which must be met when packaging the qualification. Please refer to the Prerequisite requirements table for details.

Electives (3)

Career Pathways

Graduates may progress to:

Trackwork Rider

• Ride and exercise thoroughbred horses during training sessions, jump-outs, and trials.
• Work closely with trainers to assess horse fitness and readiness for races.

Professional Jockey (with further training)

• Compete in official races locally and internationally.
• Progress to Certificate IV in Racing (Jockey) to meet licensing requirements.

Mentor or Coach

• Support and train apprentice jockeys or stable staff.
• Share your experience and help develop the next generation of riders.

Racing Steward or Senior Steward

• Monitor race meetings to ensure fair competition and rule compliance.
• Investigate incidents and uphold racing integrity.

Race Starter

• Manage the start of races, ensuring safety and fairness for all participants.

Handicapper

• Allocate weights to horses in handicap races based on performance and ratings.

Racing Administrator

• Oversee race nominations, registrations, and communication between stakeholders.

Further Study

• Diploma of Racing Integrity Management – Ideal for students interested in roles focused on racing rules, compliance, and operational management within the industry.
• Advanced Qualifications – Continue your learning journey with further studies in areas like training, business management, or animal care, depending on your career goals.

Outcomes

• Achieve a nationally recognised Certificate III qualification.
• Develop advanced riding, race-riding, and horsemanship skills.
• Gain hands-on experience in thoroughbred racing stables, building confidence and competence in race preparation and performance.

Ready to become a trackwork rider? Here’s what to know

• Early Starts, Every Day Trackwork begins before sunrise - routines and discipline matter.
• Stay Race-Fit Jockeys maintain top physical condition and strict weight limits.
• Ride With Skill and Control You'll be riding strong, competitive thoroughbreds—confidence is essential.

Racing is a lifestyle be ready for early mornings, fast-paced days!

Fees

Traineeship Eligibility: You must already be employed to enrol as a trainee with Racing Queensland. Speak to your employer about choosing Racing Queensland as your Supervising Registered Training Organisation (SRTO).

Cost: Eligible apprentices and trainees that meet the Queensland state funding requirements will be charged a set fee per nominal hour. These fees are calculated at a regulated rate.

Concession rates apply for students who hold a current Health Care Card or who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

Non-funded trainees will be charged a fee for service cost. These will be confirmed prior to the commencement of training.

Information regarding costs will be outline on the agreed training plan which will be provided to the employer and apprentice or trainee at the time of induction.

Fees and funding: A full fee schedule is available here.

How to Apply?

Ready to get started?

Fill out an expression of interest form here.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us at:

• Email: training@racingqueensland.com.au
• Phone: 07 3869 9781