Unfortunately it has been some time since our last AGM and as you are all aware there has been many changes in Harness Racing since then.

As usual we have been behind the scenes sorting out many problems, that most are never aware of. However there comes a time when everyone has to stand up and be counted, and that time was back in July when the Chairman tried to introduce new licensing procedures without any consultation with your Association or the rest of the industry.

He and his Board learnt a very good lesson that we will under no circumstances be dictated to on any issue, and in particular who can and cannot have a licence. It was gratifying to see the support from all over Victoria, and apart from a minor rabble most stayed on the issue at hand and the decision was reversed.

Other issues that we have dealt with throughout the year dealt with Insurance, Trainers medicals, scratching penalties, strappers cards for spouses, driver splits and junior driver concessions.

Last week saw the finish of Interdom 2000 and now is the time for the Board to keep its word and increase the stakes for the bread and butter races. No country race should be run for stakemoney of less than $5,000. Realistically I have my doubts that we will get this increase, but we must aim towards this level by this time next year.

I thank the committee for your continuing support, in partcular during July last year and hope that the new millennium is a prosperous one for you and the Harness Racing Industry.

Robert (Ginger) Gleeson.