With just over two weeks until applications close for the first-ever Explorer Cadetship Program, the thoroughbred industry is being asked to spread the word about the new program, which will launch in early 2019.
Applications for the first intake of the 12-month stable and stud horsemanship program are currently being taken, with a deadline of November 30.
The program, which involves three months' practical and theoretical training at the Australian Racing and Equine Academy in Richmond, NSW as well as paid placements with leading stables and studs, is aimed at providing career pathways for aspiring thoroughbred professionals as well as providing a solution to the industry's staff-shortage problem.
Lindy Maurice, CEO of Thoroughbred Industry Careers, said while the Explorer Cadetship Program would be marketed through social and traditional media channels as well as through key industry and grass roots partners, it was important that word of mouth filtered through to possible candidates, who must be aged from 18-24.
"We are trying to reach beyond the industry to those kids who ride," she said. "So many owners of horses or people connected with the industry will have kids, or nephews or nieces or family friends that may love this business and not know how to get in."
"We are trying to reach beyond the industry to those kids who ride." - Lindy Maurice
There are a wide range of roles available in the thoroughbred industry
"There's still a lot of people who ride horses for leisure and a lot of kids who fall in love with horses through riding for leisure. We hope to reach those people and say 'here's a great career path'. If you love your horses and you can't see your life without them, here's a way to turn that passion into a career."
The program has significant support from the industry already with Adrian Bott/Gai Waterhouse Racing, Arrowfield Stud, the Australian Turf Club, Chris Waller Racing, Godolphin Australia, Lindsay Park Racing and McEvoy Mitchell Racing amongst those offering knowledge and expertise to TIC.
Spreading the word
Arrowfield chairman John Messara took to the airwaves on ABC Country Hour on Thursday to talk about the threat that the staff shortage poses for the industry and how initiatives like the Explorer Cadetship Program can form part of the solution.
"If we can't get trained staff, we've got nothing and there is a great shortage out there." - John Messara
"We're finding this issue in trainers' yards, on farms and in spelling paddocks. This is the greatest threat the industry has," he said. "If we can't get trained staff, we've got nothing and there is a great shortage out there."
"But there are so many things you could be doing if you are interested in a long-term position in the industry," he said.
Broad industry support crucial
While the support of the big names of the industry is crucial to future success, Maurice said it was also important to build up the Explorer Cadetship Program's profile via broad-based industry support as well.
"We need to urge everyone in the industry to help us reach the people who can fill these roles."
"We're really encouraging everyone to get behind it, because everyone will benefit from this program," she said.
"Everyone talks about the staffing issue, so we need to urge everyone in the industry to help us reach the people who can fill these roles."
The program was only officially launched this week, with a view to capturing school and university leavers looking for a next career step.
But even the mention of a cadetship concept when Thoroughbred Industry Careers was launched in October generated over 60 enquires,
Maurice confirmed there is likely to be a second intake in August 2019, with longer-term plans to roll the program out in different states.
Can't wait to get started
When the first intake begins their program on February 4 next year. Maurice would have been working on the broader Thoroughbred Industry Careers concept, including this aspect for nearly two years.
She can't wait to get started.
Thoroughbred Industry Careers CEO, Lindy Maurice can't wait to meet the first intake of students
"I'm just excited to meet the kids. It's about changing people's lives and introducing them to something that will change their lives. That's what I'm excited about," she said.
"I can not wait to have that first group of 40 in there and we do the introduction and say this going to be the start of your 12 month' journey and we hope you love it."
"Seeing them grow and change is what I'm looking forward to. Seeing their eyes open to what the possibilities might be."
