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After 33 years of service to the NSW Thoroughbred Racing Industry, Racing NSW Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Craig Suann has decided to step-down from his role.

Craig commenced his career in racing in 1985 when he was appointed by the Australian Jockey Club as the Official Veterinarian.

During his 33 years, Craig has earnt the respect of participants and is regarded as the leading regulatory veterinarian in the Australian thoroughbred racing industry. Craig has been Chairman of the Racing Australia Veterinary and Analyst Committee for the last 12 years, a member of the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) Advisory Council for Prohibited Substances and the IFHA Welfare Committee.

His collaborative work with the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory has been instrumental in the world’s first time detection of several prohibited substances.

Racing NSW Chief Executive Mr Peter V’landys AM said:

“Craig Suann has made an outstanding contribution to thoroughbred racing in NSW. He has been instrumental in safeguarding the integrity of the NSW thoroughbred racing industry. His expert veterinary advice has contributed to Racing NSW working to ensure that all horses compete on a level playing field. The thoroughbred industry is indebted to his services.”

“Craig has been a very popular figure and his cool calm nature will be missed.”

Dr Toby Koenig has been appointed as the new Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) for Racing NSW.

A graduate of the University of Sydney, Dr Koenig commenced his professional career at the Canberra Equine Hospital before accepting an equine surgical residency at the University Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Camden where he undertook post-graduate training and research in the area of the diagnosis and management of performance limiting conditions in equine athletes.

More recently, Dr Koenig has managed a commercial thoroughbred breeding and racing operation, gaining broad experience in all facets of thoroughbred racing.

Craig Suann’s final day at Racing NSW will be Friday, 27 July 2018.