Racing Victoria launches fresh probe into banned trainer Darren Weir after secret footage emerges

Victoria Racing Authorities will examine additional evidence presented during the court appearance of disqualified racehorse trainer Darren Weir.

On Wednesday, Weir, former assistant trainer Jarrod McLean and stable hand Tyson Kermond stood before Warrnambool Magistrates’ Court, where they pleaded guilty to animal cruelty charges.

Those charges related to the use of a jigger — a small, taser-like device — on three racehorses during the 2018 Spring Racing Carnival.

The possession and use of jiggers is prohibited in horse racing.

Weir and McLean were each fined a combined $36,000, while Kermond was ordered to pay $10,000 to the RSPCA.

All three men avoided conviction.

Racing Victoria to investigate ‘further evidence’

A sign that reads "Warrnambool Courts of Justice" in front of a tall modern building and a blossoming tree. — Mr Weir and Mr McLean stood before Warrnambool Magistrates Court on Wednesday.(ABC South West Victoria: Sarah Abbott)

During the court mention, CCTV footage of the trio training racehorses Red Cardinal, Yogi and Tonsen Basil was shown at Weir’s Warrnambool stables on October 30, 2018.

The cameras, which were secretly placed, recorded a jigger used on each of the horses.

In 2019, Weir was found guilty by Racing Victoria’s Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Committee to possession of three prohibited stun devices and one charge of conduct damaging to the image, interests or welfare of racing.

The former manager of the Melbourne Cup winners was subsequently handed a four-year ban from the sport, due to end on February 6, 2023.

Weir was not charged with using jiggers by Racing Victoria.

In a statement to ABC News today, Racing Victoria said its stewards were “aware of further evidence presented during Wednesday’s mention which they will now consider”.

“We have made it clear throughout that the stewards would actively investigate should any new information come to light,” the statement said.

“This process has now begun with the stewards to follow any line of inquiry they see fit.”

Weir’s hope of returning to racing was broadcast in court

Trainer Darren Weir stands with three of his horses — Weir’s racing ban is set to end in 2023.(ABC Central Victoria: Larissa Romensky)

Weir’s attorney, Ian Hill KC, told the court that his client would like to return to racing at some point.

In a statement to ABC News on Thursday, Mr. Hill KC confirmed Weir had not yet applied for re-licensing from Racing Victoria.

Racing Victoria (RV) said any application from a disqualified individual seeking re-licensing “will be subject to RV’s normal licensing process and will be considered by RV’s Licensing Board and Board”.