Three charged after Birdsville photo incident

5 December 2022

The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) has charged Queensland thoroughbred trainer Todd Austin and jockey Ric McMahon with possession of a ‘jigger’, and for providing false or misleading evidence at an inquiry.

The charges relate to an incident at trackwork during the Birdsville Cup race meeting in August this year.

Mr Austin has also been charged with commissioning an act of cruelty to registered thoroughbred Hemmerle when he engaged jockey Ric McMahon to ride the horse at Birdsville on 30 August this year.

Along with Mr Austin’s wife, Mrs Toni Austin, the pair has also been charged with providing false or misleading information to QRIC Stewards in relation to the investigation into the matter at Birdsville.

The three were charged after a photograph was published allegedly showing jockey Ric McMahon with an electronic device in his hand riding Hemmerle on a training ride.

Mr Austin, Mrs Austin and Mr McMahon now have until next Monday to submit their pleas to the charges and provide any further submissions.

ENDS

Media Contact: Vincene Overs 

E  vincene.overs@qric.qld.gov.au

P  0472 842 346