Stable workers’ thorough job

TWO Casey residents have been named as finalists in tomorrow night’s 2009 Victorian Thoroughbred Employee of the Year Awards.
Devon Meadows resident Mal Astbury and Blind Bight resident Yvonne Harvey are both in the running to win an award at the ceremony, which celebrates the achievements and contributions of stable employees to the thoroughbred industry.
Mr Astbury has reached the final of the New Staff Members category. His boss, Jean Purcell of Purcell Racing, said Mr Astbury had no previous experience with horse stables, but was like a sponge and soaked up all the knowledge he could.
“He’s always very keen, always reliable and willing to take on extra responsibility,” Ms Purcell said.
Ms Harvey has been named as a finalist in the Part Time Stable Employee category.
Her boss, Doug Harrison of Doug Harrison Racing in Cranbourne, said Ms Harvey kept the stables organised.
“Her contribution to keeping the stables so well run and organised while constantly attending to those extra small details has enabled me to get on with the job of training and getting the best out of our horses,” Mr Harrison said.
The winner of each category will receive a $500 cheque, while the winner of the overall title of Victorian Thoroughbred Employee of the Year will win $1000.
Racing Victoria Limited’s chief operating officer Bernard Saundry said stable employees were the back-bone of the industry.