Melanie and her assistant Tanya Fullarton, have taken to their task enthusiatically and already have three worthwhile initiatives on their scoreboard :-

• An Owners Handbook was produced last year and forwarded to all registered owners of racehorses in Victoria. The comprehensive book covers all aspects of ownership and is also available to prospective new owners.
• During the Spring Racing Carnival last year, Melanie was in charge of a "Win a Share in a Racehorse" competition, the prize for which was supplied by Cyberhorse. A large pool of prospective owners was unearthed from the competition entrants.
• Owner Liaison is currently undertaking a survey of registered owners to get their feedback on all aspects of ownership. The results will be used to provide improved services to owners in the future.

An important aspect of the Owners Liaison work is fostering new owners into racing and showing them how to go about racehorse ownership. Melanie and Tanya were in action at the recent Inglis Premier Sale, running tours of the complex and explaining to the uninitiated what was going on.

On Sunday 25th of March, members of the public can enjoy an inexpensive day out with Racing Victoria which will help them to better understand "the ownership experience". The day will include a visit to Eliza Park stud, where the novice owners can experience track work and view a parade of yearlings entered in the Inglis Autumn Yearling Sale. Sale catalogue in hand, they will begin to appreciate the subtle combination of pedigree and conformation that intrigues even the most experienced horse buyer.

From Eliza Park, the tour departs for Kyneton races, where owner prospects will enjoy Members privileges, a gourmet buffet lunch, access to the mounting yard and "owner for the day" rights to a specific horse. The all inclusive cost is only $50.00. For more information and bookings, contact Melanie Hill or Tanya Fullarton at Racing Victoria on 1 800 620 843.