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Thoroughbred Breeders Australia announces 2026 Next Crop Committee

Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) is pleased to announce the appointment of the 2026 Next Crop Committee, a national group of passionate and forward-thinking industry participants committed to supporting the next generation of Australia’s thoroughbred industry.

The 2026 Committee will focus on strengthening member engagement, expanding national event offerings, and ensuring emerging voices across breeding, sales, bloodstock, racing and training are actively represented in industry discussions.

TBA CEO Andrew Hore-Lacy said the Next Crop Committee continues to play an important role in building capability, connection and leadership across the sector.

“The Next Crop Committee is about investing in people and ideas that will shape the future of our industry,” Mr Hore-Lacy said.

“This group represents a diverse cross-section of the thoroughbred ecosystem and brings energy, insight and a strong commitment to collaboration.

“TBA is proud to support their work and their contribution to the long-term strength and sustainability of the thoroughbred industry.”

The Next Crop Committee is responsible for overseeing national events, managing membership and communications, and maintaining strong governance through regular reporting to TBA. Its membership reflects a broad range of professional backgrounds and geographic representation.

2026 Next Crop Committee Members

  • Arvin Chadee – Darley Australia | Chair
  • Caitlin Smith – AgriFutures | Vice Chair
  • Bryce Bevan – Magic Millions
  • Oscar Engelbrecht – Alma Vale Thoroughbreds
  • Lance Forbes – Yarraman Park
  • Will Gardner – Inglis
  • Ben Triandafillou – Clarke Bloodstock

Incoming Next Crop Chair Arvin Chadee said the Committee was focused on harnessing the passion, insight and energy of the next generation to help shape the future of the industry.

“The next generation coming through the thoroughbred industry brings fresh perspectives, strong values and a genuine commitment to its long-term success,” Mr Chadee said.

“Next Crop provides an important platform for emerging industry participants to connect, share ideas and engage with the issues of the day in a practical and meaningful way.”

“I’m looking forward to working with the Committee to build on what has already been achieved and to deliver events, initiatives and conversations that support the future of the industry and add real value for our members.”

Next Crop will kick off 2026 with its first major event, the Next Crop Magic Millions Trivia Night this January. The event is a long-standing favourite on the calendar and offers a relaxed opportunity for members to reconnect and enjoy some friendly competition.

Further details on events and initiatives will be shared in the coming months.

Next Crop membership is open to anyone aged 36 and under who is working in, or aspiring to work in, the thoroughbred industry. To learn more or to join, visit:
https://www.tbaus.com/next-crop/about/

2025 Nolan Scholarship awarded to Mackenzie Porter

Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) is delighted to announce that the 2025 Nolan Scholarship has been awarded to TBA Fast Track graduate Mackenzie Porter.

The Nolan Scholarship was established in memory of the late Basil Nolan Jnr, a highly respected and much-loved member of the Australian thoroughbred breeding community. Awarded annually on merit to an outstanding graduate from any cohort of the TBA Fast Track program, the scholarship provides the recipient with the opportunity to undertake the internationally renowned Thoroughbred Breeding Management course at the Irish National Stud.

Mackenzie Porter graduated from TBA Fast Track in 2024 and completed her 12-month placement at Widden Stud in New South Wales, one of Australia’s most iconic and successful breeding operations. Since graduating in May this year, Ms Porter has continued to build her career at Widden and was nominated by them for the HTBA Employee of the Year – Newcomer Award.

For Ms Porter, this opportunity marks a significant milestone in her career.

“It’s an honour to receive the Basil Nolan Scholarship, and I am very grateful to the Nolans for this opportunity to participate in the Thoroughbred Breeding Management course at the Irish National Stud in 2026,” Ms Porter said.

“It’s been an amazing journey so far and this will be a great stepping stone for my career to continue its progression following on from the Fast Track program.

“I’d like to thank the entire team at Widden and everyone at TBA; I’m very excited to be heading to Ireland for this opportunity and look forward to bringing back a wealth of knowledge and experience.”

Mackenzie will travel to Ireland in January 2026 to commence her studies at the Irish National Stud.

Basil Nolan Snr, Stud Principal at Raheen Stud and father of the late Basil Nolan Jnr, as well as Chairman of TBA, said the Nolan Scholarship not only honours Basil Nolan Jnr’s enduring legacy but also continues his passion for mentoring and encouraging young people in the thoroughbred industry.

“Mackenzie’s selection as the 2025 recipient reflects both her individual accomplishments and the ongoing success of the Fast Track program in developing skilled and motivated future leaders,” Mr Nolan said.

“It was very special to be joined by my grandson Basil – Basil Nolan Jnr’s son – as part of the review process for this year’s applications, and to share the responsibility of choosing this year’s applicant with him.

“It was a difficult decision with many compelling applications to review. We are very pleased to award the scholarship to Mackenzie and we wish her the very best of luck for her time in Ireland, and for a long and rewarding career in the industry over the years to come.”

Renowned for its immersive, hands-on approach to every facet of stud management and breeding, the Thoroughbred Breeding Management course at the Irish National Stud has produced graduates who now shape the breeding and racing industries worldwide — including several of Australia’s most respected industry leaders.

TBA has collaborated with the Irish National Stud and the Nolan family to present the Nolan Scholarship – exclusively available to graduates of the TBA Fast Track program – since 2020. Applications for Fast Track 2026 open in February 2026. More information about the Nolan Scholarship, Fast Track and other TBA Education and Training Programs can be found at www.tbaus.com/programs/.

VALE WOOTTON BASSETT

Tuesday, 23 September 2025

Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) and Aushorse are saddened to learn of the untimely passing of world-class sire Wootton Bassett (2008–2025).

A proud part of the long tradition of successful shuttle stallions, his loss comes so soon after the passing of Fastnet Rock and marks another significant blow for the global thoroughbred community.

TBA and Aushorse extend their most sincere condolences to the Magnier family and the entire Coolmore team, especially those who loved and cared for Wootton Bassett. His influence will endure through his exceptional progeny in both hemispheres, including his emerging legacy in Australia.

Thoroughbred Breeders Australia Invites Applications for Revitalised Next Crop Committee

Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) is pleased to open applications for future leaders of the thoroughbred industry to be part of the newly revitalised Next Crop Committee.

Introduced in 2023, Next Crop is evolving this year with the refreshed leadership structure designed to strengthen the group’s vision, broaden its reach, and ensure long-term sustainability.

Since its launch, Next Crop has built a vibrant national community with around 800 members, delivering a diverse calendar of events including the iconic Gold Coast Magic Millions Trivia Night, Mix & Mingle @ The Sales gatherings, foaling workshops, webinars and stallion parade tours. This success has been possible thanks to the dedication of the outgoing Committee, whose contributions have laid strong foundations for the future – on behalf of the industry, TBA wishes to express its most sincere appreciation to this group. 

TBA is now seeking applications for a new Next Crop Committee Group, which will oversee the initiative for a 12-month term. Committee members will be entrusted to uphold the responsibilities and objectives set by TBA, ensuring all activities align with the values and direction of the TBA brand and contribute to a vibrant future for the Australian thoroughbred industry. 

The 2025-26 iteration of the Next Crop Committee will consist of six to eight members, who will be responsible for the following: 

  • Strategy & Vision: Shape the strategic direction of Next Crop’s membership, events, and funding framework. 
  • Events: Oversee the planning and delivery of nationwide events, maintaining a balance between educational/industry and social activities. 
  • Membership: Maintain the membership database while driving engagement and growth nationally. 
  • Communications: Manage and publish content across Next Crop’s social media platforms. 
  • Governance: Hold regular committee meetings and report outcomes directly to TBA. 
  • TBA’s Head of Industry Education and Projects Madison Tims will support the new committee in an advisory capacity. Appointments will be based primarily on individual skills, experience, and application, with the aim of also having representation nationally. Membership will not be limited to those from breeding or farm backgrounds; applicants from sales companies, bloodstock roles, training operations, or outside-industry expertise are strongly encouraged. 

Individuals with the skills and passion to represent the next generation of the thoroughbred industry are encouraged to express their interest via the formal application process, which is now live and will close at 5pm on Monday 6th October 2025.  The new Committee will be finalised by the end of October and duties will commence in November. 

For more information or to apply for the Next Crop Committee please visit the TBA website, or contact madison@tbaus.com.  

Vale: Dr James Alexander Rodger

Vale: Dr James Alexander (“Jim”) Rodger BVMS MRCVS MACVSc FANZCVS (16 August 1944 – 8 September 2025)

Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) joins the Australian thoroughbred and wider equine community in mourning the passing of Dr Jim Rodger, a pioneering equine veterinarian, accomplished artist, published author and visionary community leader. Jim died on 8 September 2025, aged 81.

A graduate of the University of Glasgow (1968), Jim emigrated to Australia in the mid-1970s and joined the Morgan Howey and Frasier Equine Veterinary Practice in Scone. He later served at Scone Equine Hospital before founding Jerry’s Plains Veterinary Hospital in 1990, building a specialist equine reproduction clinic with comprehensive laboratory capability that supported studs across the Hunter Valley and beyond.

A BVMS, MRCVS, MACVSc (Equine Medicine) and Fellow of the ANZCVS (Equine Reproduction), Jim’s expertise spanned stallion fertility, artificial breeding, sports medicine and clinical research. He co-authored Practical Horse Breeding (1997) and was among the first in Australia to champion PCR diagnostics in reproductive medicine, helping shift the industry beyond culture-based methods toward faster, more sensitive, evidence-based care.

Beyond practice, Jim helped found what became Scone Horse Week, now a 10-day celebration that attracts thousands and showcases the region as Australia’s Horse Capital. He also chaired Muswellbrook Race Club and contributed to the Scone Mare and Foal Monument, reflecting a lifelong commitment to community.

Jim’s legacy lives on in the clinicians he mentored, the innovative standards he set, the hospital he built, the festival he helped inspire, and the cultural life he enriched through his art and writing.

TBA Chairman Basil Nolan expressed his sincere sympathies to Dr Rodger’s family, friends and colleagues on behalf of the Australian thoroughbred industry.

“Jim was a clinician of rare foresight and a community builder in the truest sense. His advocacy for better reproductive diagnostics and his decades of service in the Hunter Valley helped lift outcomes for breeders nationwide. On behalf of TBA, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and colleagues.”

Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family.

Vale Fastnet Rock

Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and Aushorse pay tribute to Fastnet Rock

Tuesday, 9 September 2025

Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) and Aushorse today mourn the passing of Fastnet Rock, a breed-shaping Australian icon and two-time Champion Australian Sire (2011/12, 2014/15).

A Group 1 winner of both the 2005 Lightning Stakes and 2005 Oakleigh Plate, Fastnet Rock (Danehill x Piccadilly Circus), was born and raised at Coolmore Australia, where he stood for 19 seasons and shuttled to Coolmore Ireland for 11 consecutive northern hemisphere seasons (2010–2021). He was retired from stud duties in 2024 and, only a fortnight ago, paraded at Coolmore’s open day, delighting a packed crowd. He was humanely euthanised yesterday at Coolmore’s Jerrys Plains farm at the age of 24.

Fastnet Rock’s impact now extends through his sons and, most keenly, through his daughters: he has been Australia’s Champion Broodmare Sire for the past two seasons, underscoring a legacy that will shape the Australasian and international breed for generations. Known on farm as one of the kindest and smartest horses, he famously stamped his stock with a wonderful temperament.

Among his finest daughters is Via Sistina who was recently crowned Australian Racehorse of the Year and is poised to build on her record this spring.

TBA Chairman Basil Nolan expressed his sincere condolences to Fastnet Rock’s connections on behalf of the Australian thoroughbred industry.

“Fastnet Rock wasn’t just a great stallion, he changed the breed,” Mr Nolan said.

“From sprinting brilliance on the track to sustained excellence at stud, his influence has been profound and enduring. The fact that he’s now a back-to-back Champion Broodmare Sire says everything about the legacy still to come.

“On behalf of breeders across the country, we extend our deepest condolences to Tom Magnier and everyone at Coolmore who cared for ‘Fastnet’ so lovingly for so long.”

Aushorse Chairman Antony Thompson shared his heartfelt commiserations.

“We’ve lost a true Australian great,” Mr Thompson said.

“Fastnet Rock combined class, toughness and the kindest temperament – qualities he passed on to so many of his progeny. Only weeks ago he was paraded and looked magnificent; today the industry feels his loss deeply.

“Our condolences go especially to our fellow Aushorse Board Member Tom Magnier, Coolmore Australia’s Principal, on the passing of a once-in-a-lifetime stallion.”

Media enquiries: Meagan McGrath | Meagan@TBAus.com | +61 405 302 426

Applications Now Open for the 2025 Nolan Scholarship 

The Nolan Scholarship is awarded annually to a graduate of the TBA Fast Track program in memory of the late Basil Nolan Jnr – a highly respected and much-loved member of the Australian breeding community. 

The successful recipient will travel to Ireland in January 2026 for six months to take part in the prestigious Irish National Stud Breeding Course – recognised worldwide as one of the leading thoroughbred training programs. 

Now in its sixth year, the Nolan Scholarship has already seen seven Fast Track graduates represent Australia in completing this prestigious program. Pictured is 2024 Nolan Scholarship recipient, Madeleine St Ledger, graduating from the Irish National Stud Breeding Course. 

“My time at the Irish National Stud has been amazing — from foaling down mares to handling stallions, the afternoon lectures, and all the people I got to meet along the way. I’ve gained valuable international experience and made lifelong friendships. It’s an incredible opportunity for anyone looking to broaden their skills and gain experience overseas,” says Madeleine. 

Madeleine St Ledger – Irish National Stud Graduation 2025

About the Irish National Stud Course 

Established in 1971, the course is an immersive, hands-on program covering every aspect of horse breeding. Students live onsite and work through the entire Northern Hemisphere breeding season, starting mid-January and finishing in late June. Many graduates have gone on to hold senior positions on farms and in organisations worldwide. 

Scholarship Criteria 

Applicants must: 

  • Have successfully completed the TBA Fast Track program (including Certificate III in Horse Breeding from TAFE, signed off by their employer). 
  • Demonstrate a strong work ethic, teamwork, kindness, and willingness to help others. 
  • Show dedication to their studies, a positive attitude, and courteous classroom behaviour. 
  • Have contributed to their workplace and/or the industry since starting Fast Track. 
  • Display a genuine passion for the thoroughbred industry. 

The selection panel will look for the qualities Basil Jnr valued most: 

  • Honesty 
  • Enthusiasm 
  • Motivation 
  • Strong work ethic 
  • Passion for learning on the job 

How To Apply  

Information on how to apply can be found by completing an online application via the link here. Applicants will be required to provide a letter of support from their employer and/or an industry referee. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a Zoom interview with a TBA representative and members of the Nolan family. 

  • Applications close: Friday 26 September, 11:59pm 
  • Course dates: Mid-January – late June 2026 
  • Costs covered: Flights & tuition  

This is a rare chance for TBA Fast Track graduates to gain international experience, grow their skills, and represent the Australian breeding industry on the world stage. 

Click here to apply now
For more information, contact Madison Tims at madison@tbaus.com. 

New Team Announced for Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and Aushorse

Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) and Aushorse have today outlined their new structure and leadership team. 

Following 15 years in leadership roles at the Seven Network, Andrew Hore-Lacy was appointed CEO of TBA and Aushorse earlier this year. Since commencing in June, he has worked closely with both Boards to shape a refreshed structure designed to better serve breeders, strengthen industry connections, and further advance Australia’s world-class thoroughbred bloodstock sector. 

Head of Marketing & Partnerships: Leanna Packard 
Leanna Packard has been appointed Head of Marketing and Partnerships at TBA and Aushorse. Originally from the United States, Leanna is a graduate of The Ohio State University and began her career in marketing at WinStar Farm in Kentucky before relocating to Australia. For the past eleven years, she has served as Marketing Manager and Racing Coordinator at Newgate. In her new role, Leanna will lead marketing across both TBA and Aushorse, manage sponsorships and partnerships, and drive stakeholder engagement initiatives to further elevate the visibility and influence of Australia’s thoroughbred breeding and racing industry. 

Head of Advocacy & Communications: Meagan McGrath 
Meagan McGrath joins TBA and Aushorse after more than a decade in senior roles at the Victoria Racing Club, most recently as Senior Manager of Community, Social Responsibility and Equine Welfare. A top graduate of the Godolphin Flying Start program, she also spent three years working in Dubai for Falcon and Associates. In this new role, Meagan will lead advocacy, communications, stakeholder relations and equine welfare policy, championing the interests of breeders at the highest levels. 

Head of Finance & Administration: Gemma Cameron 
Gemma Cameron has been appointed Head of Finance and Administration at TBA and Aushorse. A Chartered Accountant, Gemma has been with the organisation since 2020 and will now oversee all financial and administrative functions. Her career spans roles with leading thoroughbred farms as well as mixed farming operations, with extensive experience in accounting firms specialising in the thoroughbred breeding and racing industry. She has also served as an independent member on audit, risk, and finance committees, and is a current board director for not-for-profit organisations. Her newly expanded portfolio includes the development, implementation, and management of finance operations, IT and office services, human resources, as well as governance and compliance.  

Head of Education & Projects: Madison Tims 
Madison Tims continues as Head of Education and Projects at TBA and Aushorse, a position she has held since 2022. The first to be appointed to a dedicated education and workforce development role at TBA, Madison is responsible for coordinating and delivering national programs that support skills development and industry engagement across the thoroughbred breeding sector. A graduate of Waikato University, Madison previously worked in marketing and education with New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders. She is actively involved with the Royal Agricultural Society Youth Group and in 2025 was an AgriFutures-sponsored participant in the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation’s Emerging Leaders Program. 

TBA and Aushorse CEO Andrew Hore-Lacy said the organisation was proud to unveil the new team. 

“These appointments mark an exciting new chapter for TBA and Aushorse,” Mr Hore-Lacy said. 

“Leanna, Meagan, Gemma and Madison each bring deep industry knowledge and a genuine passion for the work we do on behalf of breeders.  

“With the guidance of our Boards and the support of our members, we are well positioned to strengthen our industry and advance the interests of Australian breeders both nationally and internationally.” 

The new team will be in full effect as of Monday 1 September.  

FAST TRACK’S THIRD CROP GRADUATE

2020 Fast Track Graduates from left: Dannielle Murphy, Lauryn Hall, Macey Irving, Ella Baird, Tess O’Connor, Celeste Kruger, Tom Giles and Brianna Sheffield. Absent: Roxley Duggan and Liz Richardson.

The third crop of the Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) Fast Track Program celebrated their graduation in a ceremony at Scone on Tuesday night.

Launched in 2018 by TBA in collaboration with TAFE NSW, Fast Track was designed to create a structured pathway to bring new workers into the breeding industry.

Over the past 12 months, the group have studied for a Certificate III in Horse Breeding while completing full-time traineeships with some of the country’s most respected stud farms, including Godolphin, Vinery, Widden, Segenhoe, Kitchwin Hills and Twin Hills.

“The program is now in its fourth year and it is proving a great way to bring people to our industry that would otherwise never come to work on a farm,” said TBA’s Chief Executive Officer, Tom Reilly.

“Our successful candidates have a mix of backgrounds; some having lots of horse experience, while others have never touched a horse, but have a passion for racing or interest in pedigrees before starting the course. Almost none of them, however, have a background with thoroughbreds.”

Along with the formal units of study, the program also includes a number of additional lectures from leaders in the industry, ensuring trainees develop a good understanding of different aspects of breeding.  

There is also a strong focus on personal development and transferable skills with the group taking part in first aid, defensive driver training and float towing with NRMA, workshops on workplace behavior and mental health, as well as quad bike and side-by-side training.

“Fast Track does an incredibly valuable job bringing young people into the industry and we’ve had a great experience taking trainees every year,” said Mick Malone of Kitchwin Hills.

“Everyone running a farm knows how hard it is to find staff, so this initiative is really important.”

With three intakes having completed the program, some 90% of graduates are still working in the thoroughbred industry.

The group that received their certificates on Tuesday included trainees from every state in Australia, with the exception of Tasmania. Due to COVID restrictions the class size was limited and all students had to begin their placements on NSW farms.

 “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the growth and development of our trainees over the 12-month period,” said Program Coordinator, Cecelia O’Gorman.

“Our 2020 graduates are an extremely passionate bunch and I can’t wait to see what they go on to achieve. In addition to those still working in Australia, we’ve had graduates complete the Irish National Stud Course, a two-time finalist in the Australian Stud and Stable Staff Awards Newcomer category, and just last week, one of our alumni was awarded a spot on Godolphin’s Flying Start program.”

The 2021 intake for Fast Track began in Scone last month with trainees from NSW, Queensland and South Australia. Applications for the 2022 program will open early in the New Year with more information available at tbaus.com

Breeding industry mourns loss of Basil Nolan Jr

TBA Media Release

Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) is deeply saddened by the tragic death of Basil Nolan Jr of Raheen Stud.

TBA chief executive Tom Reilly said everybody who knew Basil would be mourning his loss.

“On behalf of the directors and staff of TBA we extend our deepest sympathies to the Nolan family.

“Basil was one of the industry’s true gentleman. Not only was he a great horseman but, more importantly, he was a warm and generous man who always seemed to have a smile on his face.

“He was also a devoted father of four and it was always a highlight to have a chat to Basil and his children when Raheen had a draft to sell.

“I’m sure anyone who had dealings with Basil will be grieving his loss and that the whole breeding and racing community will be thinking of the Nolan family at this difficult time.”

ENDS

 

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