HRA wishes to advise that trainers will shortly see an update to the way the Gear Change screen in HarnessWeb operates.
The gear list has been expanded to include more options and be better aligned with the full National Approved Gear List. To streamline the gear change process the gear items have also been grouped into categories rather than one large alphabetical list, so all bit variations will be located in one drop down menu section, all headcheck varieties in another and so on.
As part of the expansion it is likely that if you have previously chosen an ‘other’ gear item (or had to list it as a comment) that the correct option is now available for you to select. Changes have also been made to some of the gear item names to align with the most common use. To further assist trainers a booklet with names and images of approved gear items is available within HarnessWeb so you can confirm your selection is the item that you are actually using.
When you log in after the change you will see a pop up advising you to check the gear listed for horses in your stable to ensure it remains correct.
It is also timely to remind trainers that certain gear items are mandatory under the Australian Harness Racing Rules. This includes a noseband, a breastplate and also applies to certain bits which can only be used in conjunction with another bit such as a mini bit or a lugging bar bit. The HarnessWeb system will prompt you to enter those items if you have not and will not allow you to save gear changes until all errors have been rectified.
It is recommended that you visit the gear change page for each horse you currently have racing and ensure that their gear is up to date prior to nominating for its next start.
Any questions or queries on these changes can be directed to either the steward’s department in your state or to Kathleen Mullan, Head of Equine Health Welfare and Traceability at kmullan@hra.com.au
