For Harrison Edwards, horse racing is not just a hobby; it is a family legacy shaped by many individuals in the animal care and horse industry. Growing up in Stanmore with a great-grandfather who was a well-known bookmaker and a father who held a prominent role at the former Sydney Turf Club, the "sport of kings" was always in his blood. However, having a passion for the track and finding a professional foothold within it are two very different hurdles.
Bridging the gap between passion and profession
Today, the 21-year-old is no longer just a spectator. Thanks to a strategic partnership between TAFE NSW and the Silverdale Academy, Edwards has transitioned from a racing enthusiast to a rising professional holding roles with two of the industry's most prestigious organizations: Inglis and the Australian Turf Club (ATC).
Despite his family history, Edwards found himself at a crossroads. He was on the verge of beginning a Bachelor of Business at university but remained uncertain about which specific niche of the racing world suited him best. He lacked the hands-on experience required to turn his theoretical interest into a viable career path and wanted to be more actively involved in the learning process.
The solution came through the Silverdale Academy, an immersive collaboration between TAFE NSW and Silverdale Farm, a premier broodmare operation in the Southern Highlands. The program is designed specifically to solve the industry's "barrier to entry" problem by providing students with an insider's view of the thoroughbred world, offering comprehensive training and study opportunities.
Prospective students can take the next step toward a career in the animal care and horse industry by enrolling in accredited TAFE NSW courses, such as the Certificate III in Horse Care (ACM30821), which underpin these specialized academy partnerships.
"While I've always loved racing, I'd never had hands-on experience and the Silverdale Academy was the perfect way to learn," Mr. Edwards said. "The industry connections it exposed me to were invaluable. The program also helped me build confidence in my abilities."
A powerhouse equine industry with massive potential
It is easy to underestimate the scale of thoroughbred racing in Australia. The equine sector encompasses a wide range of activities and stakeholders, making it the nation's third-largest industry. This $5 billion powerhouse employs over 75,000 people across a variety of roles, including animal care, breeding, training, and veterinary support.
Beyond the track, the industry supports a vast ecosystem:
- Community and Recreation: From breed societies to pony clubs, the community supports the interests of both working horses and companion animals.
- Modern Standards of Care: Welfare and horse health are central to the industry. Modern standards have evolved from historical practices to ensure that owners, trainers, and handlers provide the highest level of safety and support.
- Economic Diversification: The industry is a major driver of tourism and agriculture, utilizing cutting-edge data analytics and specialized equipment to maintain global competitiveness.
Recognizing this economic weight, TAFE NSW and Silverdale Farm have expanded their offerings to include the Silverdale Academy Australian Turf Club Internship Program. This initiative ensures the talent pipeline remains robust, feeding skilled workers into a sector that is constantly evolving.
Skills that go beyond the stable
The Silverdale Academy provides a comprehensive masterclass in the business and biology of racing, while also supporting those aiming to become qualified veterinary nurses or equine specialists. For Edwards, the curriculum provided a dual-layered education:
Practical horse husbandry and health
Harrison gained critical insights into horse behavior and physiology. Understanding the animal at the center of the industry is vital for anyone looking to work in wagering, bloodstock, or race day operations.
Networking and 'soft' skills
The program acts as a networking accelerator. Students are not just reading textbooks; they are rubbing shoulders with icons of the turf. Previous cohorts have received personal masterclasses from legendary trainers, including Gai Waterhouse, Chris Waller, and Ciaron Maher.
Real-world employment
The results are undeniable. Edwards now works as a part-time bid spotter for Inglis, the leading bloodstock auctioneers—a role he secured directly through his Academy connections—while also serving as a racing and wagering assistant for the ATC.
The TAFE NSW advantage: a proven track record
Since its launch in late 2021, the Silverdale Academy has become a launchpad for dozens of graduates. TAFE NSW equine teacher Linda Molloy notes that the job prospects for interns are exceptional: "Everyone who has wanted to find a job after the course has successfully done it."
The upcoming iteration of the program features a blended learning model:
- Flexible Online Theory: Build a knowledge base at your own pace.
- High-Stakes Practical Experience: A scheduled visit to the Inglis Classic Yearling Sales next February, placing students in the heart of the commercial racing world.
Why now is the time to enter the industry
With the racing industry continuing to expand, the demand for skilled, passionate workers has never been higher. For young people considering a career in equine studies or sports management, the message from Harrison Edwards is clear: the opportunity is there if you are willing to take the lead. By bridging the gap between classroom learning and the mounting yard, TAFE NSW is ensuring that the future of Australian racing remains in capable hands.
Key program highlights
"The industry connections it exposed me to were invaluable. If I wanted to connect with someone, the opportunity was there." — Harrison Edwards, TAFE NSW Graduate
