Problem of Definition of "Recreational/Pleasure Horse" Industry

I would like to address the problem of the definition of the "RacingIndustry" vs the "Recreational Industry". I run a business which does notderive the majority of its income form the "racing" sector, however mybusiness is no more "recreational" than a business which derives its incomefrom racing. The definition of non racing businesses as recreational,suggests all businesses in this sector are run as hobbies and therefore of lesser consequence and deserving of limited support.

As the racing industry revolves around socialites partying in marquees Iwould suggest that the racing industry deserves the tag of "recreational"more than the non-racing sector. At least the non racing industry has genuine working horses such as stock horses and police horses. I would alsolike to know in what way a thoroughbred stud is more of a business than afinancially viable non-thoroughbred stud?

While I appreciate that Heath Ryan is "On the Front Foot" he will be on his back foot if he presents a document which suggests his own business andother non-racing businesses are "recreational". I would suggest that everyone needs to stop referring to the rest of as "recreational" and I would ask the AHIC, the EFA and the other non-racing bodies to PLEASE STOPreferring to non racing businesses as "recreational" especially in submissions to government on our behalf!
Maureen Byrne
Valley CountryGrafton NSW