About Us 

The racing world is not just exciting, it brings communities together across the state. Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) is at the centre of this world and more than 24,000 people choose to join us in our quest to forge a sustainable future for racing in WA. 

As well as controlling thoroughbred, harness and greyhound racing in Western Australia, RWWA operates the TAB which has more than 300 off-course retail outlets, a call centre and online betting services. communities.  

Our business is unique, which means we can offer careers which are interesting, challenging and diverse. Our values are important to us so, to be successful, you’ll have to share them. We respect one another, are accountable for our goals, connecting with everyone and bringing excellence to achieve great outcomes. We work hard but have fun while we’re doing it.

We are currently seeking a dedicated individual to join our team as a Head Starter-Thoroughbreds and Harness. 

Some of the job responsibilities include but not limited to: 

• Start all Metropolitan, Provincial and some Country races, trials and jump outs as per official protocols and guidelines
• Undertake training and accreditation of barrier staff as per RWWA requirements
• Undertake training of starting staff at Provincial and Country venues
• Make recommendations to the Stewards with respect to disciplinary/remedial matters relating to horses
• Review and establish starting procedures in consultation with Stewards and stakeholders
• Conduct Horse Identity verification, Head Gear (Blinker, Pacifiers, Winkers) and Lead Bag confirmation at race meetings to ensure all runners are presented correctly to race
• Attendance at Industry forums to discuss and advise on starting matters
• Oversee health and safety for all persons at the barriers
• Draft rosters for starters at thoroughbred and harness meetings
• Draft rosters for Barrier Attendants at thoroughbred race meetings and trials covered by RWWA barrier staff and ensure correct numbers and adequacy of barrier staff are in place.
• Liaise with Racing Services in relation to booking staff on Flights to outer provincial venues.
• Ensure all barrier equipment is maintained/in adequate condition and the Harness Barrier Vehicle’s are serviced and cleaned regularly.
• Assist with the transportation of injured horses to nominated vet facility.

About You:

• Experience in horse handling or a similar role 
• Practical horse handling skills, including the awareness, care and supervision of horses
• Good knowledge and understanding of thoroughbred and standardbred horses
• Good knowledge of racehorse gear and equipment
• Good knowledge and understanding of the racing and wagering industry
• Extensive knowledge of Rules of Racing
• Ability to maintain control of thoroughbred horses and riders in pressure situations
• Ability to lead a team, with or without supervision
• Basic computer literacy skills – Microsoft Office / Windows environment
• Completion of Year 10
• Current Senior First Aid Certificate

What are you waiting for?

Apply now with your CV and cover letter telling us why you’re the perfect fit for this opportunity.

For more information contact [email protected]

As part of the recruitment process, you will be required to complete Pre-Employment screening, which will include two reference checks, police clearance and Australian Working Rights check.

Please note this role is only open to applicants that hold Australian Working Rights and we do not offer Work Sponsorship Visa's.

Additional benefits

• Personal learning and development budget
• Hybrid and flexible work arrangements
• 17.5% loading on annual leave
• Enjoy discounts on optical and Private Health Insurance
• Wellness initiatives to support you inside and out

At Racing and Wagering WA, we recognise that we are strengthened by diversity of gender, thought, experience, and ethnicity. We are committed to providing a safe work environment and making reasonable adjustments in which everyone is included and treated fairly.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage women, people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent and people from diverse backgrounds to apply.     

We are a 2024 Circle Back Initiative Employer - we commit to respond to every applicant.