Funding boost to improve horse and rider safety

University of Melbourne researchers will seek to reduce the risk of racehorse fatalities on the track as part of a $5.25 million funding commitment from the Victorian Government and Racing Victoria. Victorian Racing Minister Martin Pakula announced new funding on Wednesday that will enable the Equine Limb Injury Prevention Research Program to continue for a further three years. The program, run by the University of Melbourne Equine Centre in Werribee, is focused on developing best-practice strategies to prevent bone and joint injuries in racehorses. It involves a collaboration between veterinarians, biomechanical engineers, epidemiologists and bone biology researchers. Bone injuries are the most common cause of horse fatalities, but are also a common factor in lameness and premature retirement. 'Understanding the bone's response to exercise and over-stress is critical to preventing injuries and fatalities and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry,' Head of the Equine Centre Professor Chris Whitton said. Funding for the next stage of the program will commence from 2016.