Racing Victoria has announced a significant partnership with Irish technology company Equine MediRecord (EMR) to implement advanced equine welfare protocols for the 2025 Spring Racing Carnival’s three most prestigious races.
The collaboration will see EMR’s digital welfare platform deployed across the Melbourne Cup (3200m), Cox Plate (2040m), and Caulfield Cup (2400m), marking a major step forward in thoroughbred welfare standards.
Enhanced Digital Welfare Monitoring
The EMR platform represents a revolutionary approach to equine welfare management, providing comprehensive digital record-keeping that cannot be altered once entered. This ensures complete transparency and integrity throughout the racing process.
Jamie Stier, Racing Victoria’s Executive General Manager for Integrity Services, commented: “Equine MediRecord has built a strong reputation globally and we are pleased to offer an enhanced version of the platform to participants completing our veterinary protocols.”
The system will automatically inform trainers worldwide about safety regulations and required documentation, streamlining the process for both domestic Australian horses and international competitors.
Proven Track Record in Elite Racing
EMR has already established itself within the global racing community, working with prestigious organisations including the Hong Kong Jockey Club, British Horseracing Authority, and the Breeders’ Cup World Championships.
The platform’s success at the 2024 Spring Racing Carnival and subsequent use in leading autumn two-year-old races demonstrates its effectiveness in maintaining the highest welfare standards.
Pierce Dargan, EMR’s Chief Executive Officer, expressed enthusiasm about the expanded partnership: “We are thrilled about our agreement with Racing Victoria and doing all we can to help ensure that the best horse welfare and transparency protocols are followed.”
Global Impact on Equine Welfare
The enhanced 2025 version combines pre-travel and pre-race welfare protocols into a single, comprehensive system. This innovation could set new standards for equine welfare management across international racing jurisdictions.
With Racing Victoria’s reputation as a world leader in welfare and integrity protocols, this technological advancement reinforces the organisation’s commitment to horse welfare whilst maintaining the sport’s competitive excellence.
The partnership highlights how modern technology can enhance traditional horsemanship values, ensuring every horse competing in Australia’s most celebrated races receives the highest standard of care and monitoring.
