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Before the Racing NSW Appeal Panel

Licensed Jockey Ben Melham lodged an appeal against penalty after being found guilty by the Stewards of excessive use of the whip under AR137A(5)(a)(ii) following his ride on Assign in Race 3 The Daily Telegraph Neville Sellwood Stakes at Rosehill on Saturday, 25 March 2017.

Ben Melham’s licence to ride in races was suspended for a period to commence on Sunday, 2 April 2017 and to expire on Sunday, 16 April 2017, on which day he may ride. In addition, Ben Melham was fined the sum of $2000. This Appeal was heard on Friday, 31 March 2017 at the office of Racing NSW.

The Panel gave the following orders: 1. Appeal against penalty dismissed 2. Penalty confirmed. Ben Melham’s licence to ride in races is suspended for a period to commence on Sunday 2 April 2017 and to expire on Sunday 16 April 2017, on which day he may ride. The additional fine of $2000 is also confirmed. 3. Reasons for decision to be published at a later date 4. Appeal Deposit is forfeited