A projected jobs boom in the thoroughbred racing and breeding industry has prompted a leading industry body to partner with TAFE NSW to meet the surging demand.

Thoroughbred Industry Careers has launched its Explorer Cadetship Program, aimed at ensuring aspiring industry participants have the skills to meet the expected 6.6 per cent increase in jobs over the next five years.

Commencing in February 2019, the 12-month program saw 30 students spend three months completing intensive training at TAFE NSW Richmond’s Australian Racing and Equine Academy. During this time, the students developed the skills they needed to succeed during their work placement, and grow in the industry.

Ex-VFL player Jack Cripps, who was one of the 30 students to be selected for program said, “The program has been unreal. I love having the opportunity to be around the horses everyday, being hands on with them and learning as much as possible about them.”

With no previous experience handling or riding horses, Mr Cripps was honored to be selected for the program.

“My love for the thoroughbred industry started when I was young, as my parents catered for the local turf club. I used to always tag along to help them out and admire the horses. As I grew up, I never detached from this admiration.”

Mr Cripps, who is the cousin of Carlton AFL star Patrick Cripps said, “I’d spent some time playing for the Northern Blues in the Victorian Football League and working in sales, but knew that my real passion was in the thoroughbred industry. So, when I saw an article about the Explorer Cadetship Program looking for people who wanted to get into the industry, I jumped at the opportunity.”

TAFE NSW Head Teacher Horse Industry Studies Karlene Triffit explained, ”The Cadetship Program has given horse lovers a vehicle into one of the largest industries in Australia, where they can follow their dreams of working with horses and earn good money while doing it.

“The racing and breeding industry has an endless supply of career pathways to suit almost anyone, and this program provides individuals with the opportunity to see and meet the best of the best over a 12 month period.”

Interested in syndication and the prospect of becoming a bloodstock agent, Mr Cripps is currently putting the skills he harnessed at TAFE NSW Richmond to the test, working as a stud hand at Godolphin’s Victorian Stud, Northwood Park.

To find out more about Horse Industry courses at TAFE NSW Richmond visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601 for more information.

Media contact: Emma Cawley, TAFE NSW Media Officer, emma.cawley1@tafensw.edu.au, mobile 0412 478 415.