Wilkes’ suspension reduced on appeal

Apprentice jockey Shae Wilkes could return to race riding as early as mid-July after the Racing NSW Appeal Panel reduced her suspension on penalty, bringing forward her potential comeback date.

Wilkes had originally been suspended for nine months after being found guilty of multiple breaches of the Australian Rules of Racing, including improper conduct towards horses and workplace harassment between 2023 and 2025.

Stewards later allowed for a reduction to seven months subject to completion of anger management counselling.

However, following an appeal focused solely on the severity of the penalty, the Panel further reduced the suspension to eight months, with additional provision for a reduction if conditions are met. The suspension, which commenced on January 13 2026, is now scheduled to conclude on September 13.

The Panel ruled that the term may be cut to six months, allowing Wilkes to resume riding on July 13, provided she successfully completes counselling to the satisfaction of stewards.

Wilkes did not contest the original findings of guilt at appeal, instead focusing entirely on securing a reduction to the time she will spend out of the saddle.

Wilkes had ridden 77 winners from just under 800 rides, with her first ride coming in March 2024.