Bren O'Brien

Bren O'Brien

Total 340 Posts
Bren is the founder and managing editor of The Straight.

Run The Numbers – Passing trends – Market rejects more yearlings

With the 2024 Australian yearling season now complete, the final stats are in and while averages and aggregates remain historically high, so too does the number of horses sent back to their vendors.

South Australia latest to announce shortfall on budgeted betting taxes

The wagering downturn continues to bite state governments with South Australia predicting a $15 million drop in revenue from its Point Of Consumption Tax regime over the current and next three financial years.

The lessons of Louisiana and the danger of a rogue state

The walls are going up in American racing after Louisiana went it alone on a more relaxed approach to the medication of thoroughbreds and it is an important lesson for an Australian industry increasingly divided along state lines, writes Bren O’Brien.

Albanese defends ongoing delay on gambling advertising reform

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese insists reform of gambling promotion is important to his government despite a 12-month delay in implementing the parliament’s recommendations.

How a land tax loss could change Godolphin Australia’s path

A High Court Appeal defeat has cost Godolphin over $1 million in land tax and may precipitate a change of business model for the global powerhouse in Australia.

Who could buy Segenhoe Stud? The $40 million question

Segenhoe Stud in the heart of prime thoroughbred country in the NSW Hunter Valley is on the market. Bren O'Brien examines potential buyers for the historic property.

Zoustar trio top positive first day of National Yearling Sale

A trio of Zoustar yearlings have topped the first day of the Magic Millions National Yearling Sale, as the market demonstrated some optimism with year-on-year growth.
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