SA drops charges on Racing Rewards Bonus Scheme

Racing SA has announced an immediate enhancement to its Racing Rewards Bonus Scheme.

All Category 2 and Category 3 nominations are now free alongside Category 1, delivering annual financial relief of $550 for Category 2 and $825 for Category 3 nominations to South Australian breeders and nominators.

The change ensures all SA-bred yearlings are automatically included in Racing SA’s Racing Rewards Bonus Scheme, which distributes approximately $3 million each year in bonuses across breeders, nominators, owners, trainers and jockeys.

As part of the initiative, Racing SA will automatically register SA-bred horses through the Australian Stud Book, while breeders who have already paid Category 2 or Category 3 nomination fees for 2024 foals will receive full refunds.

Racing SA chief executive Nick Bawden said the revised incentives underscore the organisation’s commitment to the local breeding sector.

“We want to ensure that our local breeders and owners have every opportunity to thrive, and these incentive changes reflect our partnership with the breeders’ association and our dedication to nurturing the future of South Australian racing,” he said.

South Australian Thoroughbred Breeders President and Willow Grove Stud owner-operator Ralph Satchell welcomed the announcement.

“I want to express our sincere appreciation to the Board and staff at Racing SA for their collaborative efforts leading to this positive development, which aims to assist breeders in South Australia and promote the growth and viability of South Australian racing,” he said.