Jacqueline Stewart has been appointed as the eighth Keeper of the Australian Stud Book.

The 135-year-old Australian Stud Book is co-owned and administered by the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) and the Australian Turf Club (ATC).  The ASB is a member of the International Stud Book Committee and works to uphold the integrity of thoroughbred breeding while balancing Australia’s industry interests on a global scale by administering internationally accepted rules and processes.

Stewart, currently Deputy Keeper, succeeds Michael Ford who has served in the role for 10 years and will stand down at the end of the year.

ATC CEO Darren Pearce congratulated Stewart on the appointment and said Ford had made a very significant contribution to the integrity of Australian Thoroughbred breeding.  “The ASB has an established place in the history of thoroughbred breeding thanks to the contribution of its Keepers including Mr Ford,” Pearce said.  “We welcome Ms Stewart to the role, her experience as Deputy Keeper makes her the perfect successor.”

Taking over the role on January 1, Stewart aims to ensure the ASB upholds integrity and best practice in thoroughbred breeding for future generations while remaining faithful to its traditions.

“I look forward to improving the ASB by updating communication tools, including a more user-friendly website, to ensure Australian thoroughbred breeders continue to have access to one of the world’s best stud book services,” Stewart said.

Since being founded in 1878, Stud Book Keepers have recorded more than 750,000 foals and the breeding records of over 610,000 broodmares.

NEW KEEPER
Micheal Ford flanked by Di Hills (left) and Jacqueline Stewart