Darren Weir Appeals Two-Year Ban in Supreme Court, Citing "Unreasonable Delays"

Darren Weir has officially lodged an appeal with the Supreme Court, challenging the two-year ban imposed by the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT) earlier this year. The appeal argues that the disqualification period is "excessive and out of proportion," particularly given the significant delays in laying the charges and the fact that Weir has already served four years for a related offence.

The charges stem from a covert video recorded in 2018 at Weir's Warrnambool stables, showing the use of a jigger – a small electric shock device – on three horses: Tosen Basil, Red Cardinal, and Yogi. Despite the charges, Weir’s appeal highlights the fact that he has taken full responsibility for his actions, served his initial four-year disqualification without contest, and dedicated himself to rehabilitation and reformation since then.

Weir’s legal team, led by solicitor Katherine Brideoake, contends that the VRT’s decision failed to account for his rehabilitation efforts and the length of time already served. The appeal also raises concerns about the Tribunal’s decision not to backdate the new two-year ban, effectively extending Weir’s time away from the sport to a total of 7½ years – a period the appeal describes as “excessive.”

Unreasonable Delays and Double Punishment

One of the key arguments in the appeal is the timeline surrounding the charges. Weir's legal team claims that the Tribunal did not adequately account for the extensive delay between the expiration of his first disqualification in February 2023 and the laying of new charges in September 2023. As Judge John Bowman, Chairperson of the VRT, acknowledged in the original decision:

“He (Darren Weir) has had these charges and their predecessor (possession) hanging over him for approximately five and a half years. There is no suggestion that any part of that delay is in any way attributable to him. The same could not be said of the Stewards.”

The appeal also argues that the VRT’s refusal to recognise “special circumstances” in Weir’s case – particularly the overlap between the two bans and the lengthy delays – is unreasonable and violates the principle of double punishment. Weir’s legal team asserts that the charges all relate to the same events from 2018, which have already been addressed through his previous disqualification.

Impact on Darren Weir’s Life and the Racing Industry

Weir’s appeal emphasises the significant toll the extended ban has taken on his life and career. Since the end of his initial four-year disqualification, Weir had been running a successful pre-training operation at his Trevenson Park property, where he employed more than 30 people and worked with over 100 horses. While pre-training horses does not require a trainer’s license, Weir was forced to clear all thoroughbred horses from his property when the new ban came into effect in September 2024.

The ongoing legal battle has highlighted the support Weir continues to receive from within the racing industry. Many prominent figures, including high-profile trainers and owners, have spoken out in favour of Weir, citing his dedication to his craft, his willingness to learn from his mistakes, and the immense contribution he has made to the sport.

The appeal now places the next stage of Darren Weir’s journey in the hands of the Supreme Court, as he continues to fight for what he and many others believe is a fair outcome.

A Community Standing Behind Him

As Darren Weir takes his fight to the next level, the Fair Go For Weir campaign continues to show unwavering support for him and his team. This is more than a battle for one man – it’s a fight for fairness, justice, and second chances.

We invite you to follow the journey on our blog and encourage you to share your support. You can read more about the ongoing legal proceedings and access key documents, including the VRT’s decisions from April, July, and September of this year, on the Fair Go For Weir blog here.

Your Voice Matters

Do you believe Darren deserves a fair shot at a comeback? Send us your messages of support, or consider writing a character reference as part of our campaign. Together, we can show the racing community just how strong the support behind Darren Weir remains.