Living Legends’ Andrew Clarke receives King’s Birthday honour
The man behind the highly successful thoroughbred retirement concept Living Legends is among a host of racing-related people to receive King’s Birthday honours.
Bren O'Brien's Latest Articles
Tricks of the trade – Promotion lotteries in government’s sights
Over 80 companies that offer trade promotion gambling services, including major players in the wagering industry, are set to be impacted by a proposed federal government ban on lottery or sweepstakes products.
RA says software glitch to blame for SNS issue, rules out cybersecurity breach
A software problem, rather than any form of cybersecurity breach, led to recent issues with the Single National System, the key technological tool which is central to the running of Australian racing, according to Racing Australia.
The end of the American dream? How the US betting market flutters are set to be felt in Australia
After seven years of unfettered growth, the massive American sports betting scene is undergoing a major reset, disrupted by prediction markets and corporate upheaval. Bren O’Brien examines the potential impact on the wagering industry in Australia.
Message from our Managing Editor and Founder
It has been a while since we have reached out to our broader audience, newsletter readers and members to give you an update on what is happening at The Straight.
Tassie meetings to be cut as it ‘right sizes’ amid wagering and horse population challenges
Tasmania’s three key racing venues are set to lose meetings in the 2026/27 season, but Tasracing has committed to retaining stakes and offering a better optimised wagering product.
Run The Numbers – Where to now for the live broodmare auction?
In the space of seven years, the number of broodmares and race fillies offered annually at live auctions in Australia has slumped by close to 70 per cent. The switch to digital sales has changed the landscape for selling breeding stock. Run The Numbers digs into the details.
ASIC seeks feedback on syndication requirements, but unlikely to make major changes
An “uneven playing field” which sees syndicators subject to greater compliance than trainers when it comes to the promotion or sale of racehorses is likely to continue, as Australia’s lead corporate regulator reviews the laws around managed investments.
Court of Appeal retires to consider decision as the ‘definition of horse racing’ comes under scrutiny
The future power dynamic between Racing NSW and the Australian Turf Club now lies in the hands of three senior judges after legal argument concluded in the crucial appeal against the ATC’s bid to defy administration.
Separation not subordination – ATC stands firm on argument against administration
While Racing NSW’s legal team argued that its power over the state’s racing clubs extended beyond matters on the track during a Court of Appeal hearing, the Australian Turf Club is adamant that the initial Supreme Court ruling, which prevents it from being placed into administration, should hold.
