June 1 2018 Will the Minister support Australia’s oldest jockey? The Opposition has called on the Minister for Racing and Gaming to show leadership and support Australia’s oldest, and one of Western Australia’s most respected jockeys, Danny Miller. Shadow Minister for Racing and Gaming John McGrath said it was extremely disappointing that Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) had terminated Miller’s licence to ride without any explanation for the decision. “I have discussed this with the Miller family and I share the family members’ heartache at the treatment of Danny,” Mr McGrath said. “Miller’s family says it has been left without any clear answers to the questions it has put to RWWA. “RWWA has handled this terribly and the Minister needs to tell racing’s governing body to show some respect for a jockey who has entertained generations of racing enthusiasts, mentored hundreds of jockeys, made a significant contribution to the racing industry and volunteered his time to the industry. “We are a sporting nation that celebrates our heroes, but RWWA is acting callously in the way it is bringing Danny Miller’s career to an abrupt end without entertaining the suggestion that he be given an appropriate farewell. “Danny’s family is devastated at his treatment and has every reason to be so. “When our cricket greats’ careers come to an end, they are celebrated. When the careers of our footy champs come to an end, they are paraded around the MCG. “RWWA has not only immediately terminated Danny’s career without explanation, it has not even offered an appropriate farewell. It should have engaged with Danny and discussed his departure from racing on agreed terms. “The way it has treated Danny Miller, a stalwart of the industry, RWWA is sending a message to all participants in the industry their contribution is not appreciated. “If RWWA is not prepared to do the right thing by a long term servant of the industry, the Minister ought to get involved and tell it to show some courtesy in explaining its decision to Miller and his family.” Media Contact |
