Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) has announced an increase in benefits under the state-wide Sulky Fund, commencing from July 1, 2018.
The Sulky Fund (setup in 2005) reimburses trainers for damages to a sulky as a result of an incident in Victorian races and official trials where a steward is present.
The changes to the Sulky Fund are:
ļ· Maximum benefit for damage to a sulky has increased to $3,000 (from $1,600).
ļ· Sulky wheels will now be covered up to maximum of $1,000 per wheel when damaged during official races (a $250 excess applies for all wheel claims).
The Victorian Trainers and Drivers Association welcomed the announcement.
“The Association and HRV are very mindful of not only the professionals in the industry but the large number of small, part-time trainers who are the backbone of the industry and we’re certainly welcoming of these changes,” VTDA vice president John Hallam said.
HRV General Manager – Finance Luke Spano said today’s announcement was designed to assist participants.
“HRV understands how important it is to do all we can for our valued participants within our own financial means, and extending the Sulky Fund at no additional cost to participants will absolutely assist,” Mr Spano said.
“This follows on from HRV’s previous announcements regarding the Industry Assistance Program and the earlier release of stakemoney payments to participants for the majority of races. We are committed to improving the lives of industry participants and this is another action we are taking towards that goal.”
HRV was also able to negotiate with its underwriters to extend the personal accident insurance coverage provided to drivers and trainers to include the volunteer stablehands at no additional cost to HRV or participants. Volunteer stablehands are no longer required to contribute $95 to purchase separate insurance
cover.
Personal accident insurance provides coverage to licenced trainers, drivers and voluntary stablehands of the Victorian harness racing industry, including pony trot participants, voluntary workers, monte race riders, New Zealand licenced visitors and all other licenced visitors in certain circumstances.
A flyer which provides further information on coverage for non-Medicare medical costs, capital benefits, harness and non-harness racing income and additional expenses is attached and can be viewed here.
Participants should read the PDS to ensure that the cover provided by the personal accident policy is appropriate for their circumstances.
For queries regarding HRV’s personal accident policy please contact Jamie Taylor from JLT Sport on (03)96131415.
CODY WINNELL
MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER