The Federation of Bloodstock Agents Australia (FBAA) firmly rejects recent remarks made by media personality Richard Callander during a hearing before Racing NSW Stewards that secret commissions and kickbacks are “racing’s dark little secret”.

Mr Callander admitted during a hearing conducted by Racing NSW Stewards yesterday that he had been involved in the sale of a racehorse to Hong Kong for $200,000 despite telling the owners that the horse had been sold for $140,000.

“It is very disappointing for a senior journalist to say during a stewards inquiry that kickbacks and secret commissions are racing’s ‘dark little secret’,” said FBAA President Adrian Hancock today.  “Those comments are a slur on the participants in the industry who operate professionally and honestly.

“I note that no bloodstock agents are alleged to have been involved in this sale or the recent transaction in Victoria involving trainer Brent Stanley let alone members of the FBAA.

“The FBAA is dedicated to ensuring the integrity and fairness in all its horse dealings.  We have been at the forefront of developing industry best practices for nearly 20 years.  In addition to the industry Code of Conduct, the FBAA has a Code of Ethics to ensure our members can be trusted”, said Hancock.

“We urge any racing participant to get in contact with the FBAA if they are in need of advice about the possible sale of a racehorses, yearlings or broodmares.  To this end we always recommend using the FBAA Contracts of Sale in any transaction.  Each of our 26 accredited members will always act in the best interests of their clients and make sure that they are well looked after.”

FBAA members can be identified by the acronym FBAA appearing after their name on the purchasers list at public sales. The public can also review our Code of Ethics and member profiles at our website at www.bloodstockagents.com.au