Mehreen Faruqi (NSW, Australian Greens) Share this | Hansard source

This year marks the largest number of deaths recorded for horseracing; 174 horses were killed on track or from injuries sustained on the track. It is disgusting that today's cup of cruelty was being celebrated in the Speaker's courtyard today while more and more horses suffer horrific deaths to feed the gambling industry's profits. We should all be saying, 'Nup to the cup,' not toasting an anachronistic tradition that only brings misery and suffering. The Melbourne Cup represents the perfect concoction of racing and gambling companies, sponsors and major political parties to get drunk on gambling profits and dirty donations. Horseracing kills, no ifs, no buts. But the industry goes to great lengths to hide its revolting underbelly.

Anthony Van Dyck broke down during the race in 2020, his fetlock fractured and his life ended. But watch the replay, and you'll be none the wiser. His life-ending injury was completely cut out of the frame. They simply edit out the footage and sweep it under the carpet, taking a page right out of greyhound racing's playbook. This cruel and callous industry doesn't give a damn about the horses, who are used, abused and killed for profit. Taxpayer money is being used to prop up one of the worst days of the year for our nation's domestic violence, alcohol related ambulance attendances and gambling—everyone loses. But, if there was a cup for cruelty, greed and cowardice, the gambling and racing industry would win it every year for sure. Horseracing is not a sport; it is legalised cruelty and killing for profit. This bloodbath must end.