Grace Forbes departs Racing Victoria
Dr Grace Forbes has resigned as Racing Victoria’s general manager of veterinary services less than a week after it was revealed she had settled a Fair Work case against the principal racing authority.
Dr Grace Forbes has quit as Racing Victoria’s head veterinarian just days after settling a bullying case out of court that she brought against her long-term employer.
Racing Victoria staff were informed via email on Thursday that Forbes had tendered her resignation after 16 years working for the principal racing authority.
Dr Forbes had levelled bullying allegations through the Fair Work Commission against Racing Victoria chief executive Aaron Morrison and other senior executives, manager of people and performance Xavier Linton and executive general manager of integrity services Jamie Stier.
However, it was revealed last Friday that Dr Forbes, who was general manager of veterinary services, and Racing Victoria had settled the matter.
Dr Forbes had been on personal leave since July and neither party has commented publicly about the settlement.
In an email to staff, Stier thanked Dr Forbes for her contribution since she joined the organisation in 2012.
“Dr Forbes assisted in the development and implementation of our world leading veterinary protocols which have allowed the Spring Racing Carnival to continue without catastrophic injury since their introduction in 2021,” the email sent by Stier read.
“Racing Victoria recognises the significant contribution Dr Forbes made to horse racing in Victoria, Australia and internationally to help create a safer racing industry.”
The email said Dr Forbes would continue to work in equine welfare.
Racing Victoria issued a statement late on Thursday.
“We can confirm that Dr Forbes has resigned from her role as GM – Veterinary Services,” it said.
“It is our intention to commence the process of employing a new head vet early in the new year.
“Equine welfare remains of the highest priority to RV and our veterinary team plays an important role in that.”
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