Thoroughbred breeders in the Upper Hunter are searching for the next generation of workers as the expanding industry faces a skills shortage due to COVID restrictions.
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A reduction in international and interstate travelers coming to the region and has led to an increase in the number of positions available in the industry.
In a statement, the Hunter Thoroughbred Breeders Association (HTBA) said Hunter Valley farms are opening their gates to give opportunities to people wanting to work with thoroughbreds.
"With continuous growth in regional investment, major increases to NSW Racing prize money and international demand for quality racehorses, the thoroughbred industry has so many job opportunities for people who want to work with horses and turn their passion for horses into a career," the HTBA said.
"The Hunter Valley is one of three International Thoroughbred Breeding Centres of Excellence, alongside Kentucky in the USA and Newmarket in the UK.
"Thoroughbreds make a huge contribution to the regional, state and national economy, supporting thousands of jobs directly, as well as many more in related support industries."
Positions are currently available throughout the Upper Hunter in thoroughbred facilities across Scone, Muswellbrook and Singleton.
"If you are looking for work and want to kick start your career and learn from leaders in the domestic and global horse industry, there are plenty of jobs available," the HTBA said.
According to the HTBA, the only qualifications required for many positions are a driver's licence and own vehicle transport and the desire to live and work in the 'Thoroughbred Capital of Australia'.
A number of introductory programs and free training start up courses for people interested in applying will commence from Monday, October 25.
"If you have a passion for horses and want to join our world-renowned industry now's your chance!" the HTBA said.
Available job range from farm hands, garden crew and stable hands to skilled positions for those with previous experience working with young horses.
According to the HTBA, the Hunter Valley's thoroughbred breeding industry contributes over $5 billion annually to the national economy and $2.6 billion annually to the NSW economy.
The industry currently supports more than 230,000 jobs throughout Australia.
For more information on jobs available in the Hunter Valley thoroughbred industry, visit the website of the Hunter Thoroughbred Breeders Association.