Tom Dabernig has struck an agreement with Racing Victoria that will likely see him fined for presenting a horse to race with several banned substances in its system.
Dabernig is the latest trainer to face charges relating to the presence of Formestane and 4-hydroxytestosterone, as well as Testosterone, in a raceday urine sample from one of his horses.
Dabernig was charged by Racing Victoria in December after an investigation that found his horse Ashford Street returned a pre-race urine sample containing the three substances when he ran last in the G2 Caulfield Sprint in October 2024.
The Stakes-winning gelding died in 2025 after a serious bout of colic.
Dabernig maintains his innocence of any wrongdoing and is one of at least 24 thoroughbred and harness trainers that have been embroiled in the ongoing Formestane saga that has seen a string of positive swabs discovered by Victoria’s RASL lab.
Evidence from some experts indicates Formestane is endogenous in horses and recently Betsy reported that RV CEO Aaron Morrison is seeking to conduct a global investigation to definitively determine whether the banned substance at the centre of the drama is naturally produced.
Betsty understands Dabernig strongly considered fighting the charge but at a directions hearing on Monday morning, the trainer’s lawyer Damian Sheales said he had reached an “agreed position” with Racing Victoria and the case is well placed to be finalised promptly.
“I can tell you there is an agreed position on penalty between the parties and that is that it’s a fine,” Sheales said.
“The question of quantum is a matter for the Tribunal.”
“I’m happy to go first and provide some submissions and, even if the Tribunal didn’t hand down on the day, it could be handed down by email later.”
“I would’ve thought an hour would be plenty (for the case to be finalised).”
Written submissions will be made by both parties before the case is heard on 8 July.
