Racing Victoria has withdrawn a job offer to a leading racing veterinarian just 24 hours after his appointment was announced, following revelations of his involvement in a past court case.
Appointment Withdrawn
Dr Glenn Robertson-Smith, who has over 40 years of experience, was recruited from Hong Kong to become the chief veterinary officer for Racing Victoria in Australia. The announcement was made on Monday, with Racing Victoria praising his extensive background in specialist clinical practice, academia, and large-scale racing regulatory environments.
His responsibilities would have included overseeing veterinary protocols during the Melbourne Cup, Australia's premier international horse racing event. A statement from Racing Victoria noted that Dr Robertson-Smith would lead a team of regulatory veterinarians, veterinary nurses, and swabbing officials at 530 race meetings annually, manage the anti-doping program, and deliver welfare initiatives. He was set to commence duties on 10 August 2026.
Court Case Emerges
However, doubts arose on Tuesday when the racing website Betsy revealed Dr Robertson-Smith's involvement in a 2018 court case. He was accused of making a threat to kill in a voicemail. The vet admitted in court to using a carriage service to menace or harass. He received a diversion order without a criminal conviction and retained his veterinary licence.
Following these revelations, Racing Victoria's chief executive, Aaron Morrison, announced the withdrawal of the job offer. "Based on information confirmed today, we have decided we won't be proceeding with the appointment," Morrison said. He also initiated a review of internal processes to ensure they are as rigorous as possible.
The Melbourne Cup, a showpiece event, remains a central focus for Racing Victoria, which now seeks a new chief veterinary officer.
