Wyndham HRC 22 February 2026 – R6 – Georgia Goodman

EVIDENCE:

Following the running of Race 6, Stipendiary Steward Miss Maja Szukiel-Deans, presented an Information alleging a breach of Rule 869(2) by Junior Driver Miss Georgia Goodman.

Miss Goodman stated she understood the Rule and the Charge and confirmed her admission of the breach. Miss Goodman was assisted at the hearing by her employer and Open Driver Nathan Williamson.

Rule 869(2) provides:

(2) No Driver shall during any race use a whip in a manner in contravention of the Use of the Whip Regulations made by the Board.

The Regulations at Clause 3.4 (3.4.2) establish a breach when:

The whip is applied excessively, continuously or without allowing the horse time to respond.

Miss Szukiel-Deans had Stipendiary Steward Mr Vinny Munro, identify Miss Goodman on the available video, to show her racing widest on the track entering the home straight. He pointed to Miss Goodman using her whip from the 300m, continuously, before complying with the Regulations at approximately the 100m.

Miss Goodman declined to comment, and Mr Williamson advised the horse is one who does not wish to give it’s best.

DECISION:

The Respondent having admitted the breach, the Charge was deemed to be proved.

SUBMISSIONS FOR PENALTY:

Miss Szukiel-Deans stated Miss Goodman has had 73 lifetime drives, 14 this season. She said Miss Goodman was warned on Friday, day one of the meeting.

Miss Szukiel-Deans said Stewards viewed the breach at low level.

Miss Goodman said she wished to receive a fine, rather than being suspended.

REASONS FOR PENALTY:

The Penalty Guidelines provide a starting point for a first breach of this Rule, a $300 fine or a 2-day suspension.

Miss Goodman admitted the breach and her record is clear. The Adjudicative Committee, in regard to her status as a Junior Driver, considers a fine of $250 appropriate for this breach.

CONCLUSION:

Junior Driver Georgia Goodman is fined $250.