Council moves

The Australian Horse Council is set for a change in name and chairman in 1997. But it won't be until early 1998 before any funding comes through from the proposed horseshoe levy.

Former AHC Chairman Mr Andrew Peacock resigned from the position to fulfil his commitments as Australian Ambassador to Washington.

Acting Chairman Dr Ian Neilsen told AFN a new chairman will be elected at an AHC meeting in February, but Mr Peacock has already pledged continuing support to the council.

The February meeting will also be the last for the AHC as it is now known, before it comes the Australian Horse Industries Council Inc.

Dr Neilsen said the committee has been planning to add the word "industries" to the title to encompass more sectors of the industry.

"A lot of services connected to the horse industry would not have felt included under the old title," he explained.

"But we are aiming to be the peak representative body for all areas, including farriers, transporters, dentists, feed suppliers, the saddlery sectors and insurance." Aside from representing the equestrian industry at government level, Dr Neilsen says the council will drive the equestrian arm of the research and development organisation, RIRDC.

"This may include anything which supports the industry up to the point of sale, such as proper development of courses for farrier schools and a structured apprenticeship system."

To date, the proposed horseshoe levy has received support from the EFA, the Australian Stock Horse Association and the Australian Quarter Horse Association. Documentary evidence of the support of these groups will be submitted to the Federal Minister for Primary Industries John Anderson this month.

If the Minister backs a horseshoe levy, Dr Neilsen predicts it may be in place by early 1998.

The $1 per set levy will apply for all types of horseshoes, including racing plates and therapeutic shoes, and the proceeds divided between the AHIC, RIRDC and the Australian Animal Health Council (AAHC).

Some 72 percent of the levy will go to research and development, a figure to be matched dollar for dollar by the Federal Government, three percent is allocated to the AAHC, and 25 percent will fund the establishment of the AHIC secretariat.

After three years, horseshoe levy funding of the AHIC will be withdrawn, and by 2001 the council will be self-funded through subscription.