An application will be made by TAFE to receive $15 million in federal government funding in order to build a training academy for apprentice jockeys, stablehands and trackwork riders at Warwick Farm Racecourse.

Racing NSW chief executive Peter V’landys has pledged his support for the application.

“This is something we need because our industry is under-resourced when it comes to trackwork riders, stablehands and jockeys,” Mr V’landys said.

”Everyone is supportive of trying to get this academy over the line, and Warwick Farm is the perfect place for it, but we need between $10 and 15 million to set it up properly.”

Australian Turf Club (ATC) chairman John Cornish offered up the use of the soon-to-be vacated offices at Canterbury Racecourse as a teaching area.

”The ATC believes this project is something the industry needs to go forward and is extremely supportive of the concept,” Mr Cornish said.

”We were a little disappointed that there was nothing in place (in terms of funding) for this meeting, but we are prepared to help out with somewhere for the apprentice school until the funding comes through.

”It still has to go to my board, but I have offered some space at our Canterbury offices, once the staff move out.

“It is on a racecourse.

“It would be a good starting point for an apprentice school.”

Should the funding be approved, TAFE hopes to turn Warwick Farm’s old tote building into a training centre for the racing industry.