Applications for the 2024 Queensland Off-The-Track Grants Program are now open.
With up to $550,000 on offer across five initiatives, the QOTT Grants Program provides support to not-for-profit organisations, charities and businesses that provide equine rehabilitation/retraining services, or second careers for retired racehorses, including as therapy horses.
The initiative also aims to improve welfare outcomes by providing support for vulnerable retired racehorses, increasing the breadth of career options and non-competitive pathways available, as well as driving demand for retired thoroughbred and standardbred horses into long-term homes.
Racing Minister Grace Grace said the QOTT Grants Program collectively helps to improve outcomes for retired racehorses while supporting the growth of equine operators in Queensland.
“Successful applicants will be able to use funding to support equine welfare and bolster opportunities available to retired racehorses that have previously transitioned from the racing industry into the domestic horse community,” Minister Grace said.
“The QOTT Grants Program is imperative in supporting grassroots community organisations and businesses that make a significant impact on the wellbeing of retired racehorses, with funding awarded to support them to continue their retired racehorse welfare initiatives.
“In 2023, the second round of grant funding supported 21 not-for-profit organisations and charities by contributing more than $280,000 towards maximising aftercare outcomes – in addition to a further $100,000 in its first round.”
Following its inception last year, a grant for the QOTT’s network of Acknowledged Retrainers will again play a critical role in supporting retired racehorses transitioning to new homes.
Grant funding assists retrainers to boost their capacity to transition more racehorses to second careers, while enhancing the quality of the state’s Acknowledged Retrainer network.
Funding can be used by QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers for a variety of resourcing and infrastructure projects to help them expand their operations or upgrade their facilities.
QOTT Board Chairperson Dr Christine Johnson said the QOTT Program welcomes applications from organisations that provide a safety net for retired racehorses as well as providing second careers for retired racehorses.
“Increasing the post-racing opportunities available for retired racehorses outside of the common pathways such as equestrian sport is imperative, as we know that not every horse is suitable for the equestrian world,” Dr Johnson said.
“QOTT is committed to supporting retired racehorses beyond their transition from racing and it’s important to open the door to allow more retired racehorses to explore non-competitive pathways post-racing.
“Additionally, funding provided by QOTT allows our statewide network of Acknowledged Retrainers to grow their capacity to take on more retired racehorses, which further complements the work of trainers and owners who directly transition their horses into second careers.”
The QOTT Grants Program complements the various post-racing initiatives introduced by QOTT over the past two-and-a-half-years.
These include the Subsidised Lessons Program, Acknowledged Retrainers Program, Event Sponsorship Program, QOTT Nutrition Education Hub, Safety Net Partnership with Save A Horse Australia, QOTT Clubhouse and the New OTT Owner Welcome Pack.
Applications for the QOTT Grants Program are now open, and close at 5pm (AEST) Wednesday, May 29, 2024.
Click here for more information on the QOTT Grants Program, including guidelines and application criteria.