A NSW property owner has been charged following a months-long investigation into the discovery of dead and severely malnourished former racehorses on a farm in the state’s Southern Tablelands.
Sydney Morning Herald reports the charges followed a raid of the property in June, which was carried out by RSPCA, alongside Racing NSW and NSW Police, after launching an extensive probe into the alleged neglect.
NSW property owner Taran Kelly will face 11 animal cruelty-related charges when she appears in Yass Local Court on November 27, including aggravated cruelty and failing to provide veterinary care.
A Racing NSW stewards report alleged that former racehorses Promesa and Miss Manzanilla were found dead on her Southern Tablelands property, while another horse, Buzz Bomb, was reportedly in a critically emaciated state.
RSPCA NSW confirmed some horses remain on the 80-hectare property under enforceable welfare directions. Traceability records show 30 thoroughbreds were sent to the farm in the year prior to the inspection.
Racing NSW can search properties and seize phones of licensed participants but cannot enter land owned by people not involved in racing unless there is a suspected welfare breach accompanied by RSPCA personnel.
“As this matter is now before the court, RSPCA NSW is unable to comment further,” a spokesperson told the SMH.
In June, Racing NSW added Kelly to its “excluded list”, which bars trainers and owners from transferring racehorses to her in the future.
The publication adds that Racing NSW cannot take action against Kelly, who isn’t involved in racing, but examined the phone of Queanbeyan foreperson Samantha Murphy, a licensed industry participant. A stewards report said Murphy had facilitated the retirement and transport of 27 thoroughbreds to Kelly’s farm, following a Messenger conversation in which Kelly allegedly revealed she had previously sent three horses to a zoo for lion feed.
Murphy has appealed a 16-month industry disqualification handed down by Racing NSW stewards on August 30.
“My client welcomes the actions taken by the RSPCA against Taran Kelly,” said Murphy’s solicitor Joe Bryant.
“It is appropriate that these serious welfare concerns are being dealt with through the proper legal process. However, as the matter is before the court, it would be improper to comment further until the proceedings have concluded.”
Racing NSW said in a statement that it “takes any breach seriously as has been the case in this matter”.
“Racing NSW leads the world in horse welfare. It was the first to prohibit horses being sent to knackeries. Racing NSW have a full-time unit ensuring all horses are re-homed and cared for,” the statement said.
“Assigned investigators and veterinarians conduct retired horse audits to ensure retired horses that have been rehomed are being appropriately cared for. Accordingly, there have been over 5000 physical inspections undertaken. Racing NSW is the only jurisdiction that conducts these audits.”
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