Victorian jockeys in riding fees showdown with trainers over ‘jump outs’
A Melbourne thoroughbred industry showdown is looming after Victorian jockeys have refused to ride without pay on gallopers jumping from starting stalls in training.
Hoops are paid to ride in races and official barrier trials, but were providing their services free when piloting gallopers in jump outs, under a long-term arrangement.
But the gentleman’s agreement on jump outs has been shelved by Victorian Jockeys’ Association members and they are threatening industrial action from Sunday.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“Senior jockeys receive a $110 fee for each horse they ride in barrier trials,” VJA chief executive Sam Hyland said on Wednesday.
“Unless jockeys are paid the same amount for jump outs, we won’t be available to jump horses out, after this weekend.
“The VJA have been trying to negotiate with Victorian racing authorities and stake holders on this issue, but owners and trainers are rejecting jockeys’ requests for jump out payments.
“Jockeys are not going on strike from race meetings, but they won’t be available at jump outs. They are united and strong on this issue.
“We will withdraw our jump out services at Flemington, Caulfield, Mornington, Pakenham, Cranbourne, Ballarat and Balnarring.”
About 70 senior jockeys ride in Victoria and more than 450 gallopers undergo jump outs for education and fitness-boosting each week.
Victorian apprentice jockeys are not paid for riding in jump outs because their employment terms include jump out services.
Industry clashes on jump out payments escalated in Victoria on Wednesday, when leading jockeys and trainers weighed into the fray.
“Owners have been getting a free kick for years,” gun hoop Damian Lane said on Wednesday, “We want to be paid for jump outs, and it’s not our concern where the money comes from. We don’t want to debate whether we should be paid, we’re past that. It’s time for action.
“Jockeys must be paid the same amount for barrier trials and jump outs. We need an immediate resolution on this issue.”
Melbourne Cup winning hoops Michelle Payne said: ”Jockeys can’t be expected to travel and work at jump outs, for no payment.”
Group 1 winning trainer Henry Dwyer said he acknowledged jockeys had difficult and dangerous work.
“Jockeys have received race riding fee increases in recent seasons, and that should also cover their jump out riding expenses,” Dwyer said. “There are limits in the racing economy.
“If more income is allocated to jockeys, it will lead to stable hands, track riders, float drivers, barrier attendants, owners and trainers being paid less.”
