Queensland ATA launches Rising Star Award

The Queensland branch of the Australian Trainers Association (ATA), in partnership with Magic Millions, has announced the inaugural Queensland ATA Rising Star prize to spotlight the state’s top trainer aged 35 and under during the Magic Millions Carnival.

The winner will receive a $10,000 Magic Millions sales credit for the 2026 Gold Coast March Yearling Sale (March 12–13). Second and third placegetters will earn sales vouchers of $5,000 and $2,500 respectively.

“The training ranks in Queensland have never looked stronger,” said ATA Queensland Executive Richard Andrews.

“We have an exciting list of young trainers, either working solo or in family partnerships, alongside leading mentors like recent Pat Duff Trophy winner Barry Lockwood.”

Andrews praised Magic Millions’ ongoing support: “They’ve backed our major award, the Wayne Wilson Medal, and now this new initiative.”

Magic Millions Managing Director Barry Bowditch said the company was proud to partner on the program. “Supporting Queensland racing participants at all levels is incredibly important to Magic Millions,” Bowditch said. “We look forward to hosting the winners at the Gold Coast March Yearling Sale.”