Angus and Thomas awarded amazing Spring Internship Opportunity.

At the 2024 ARMA Awards Dinner, Liam O'Keeffe from the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) and Peter Manning from Evergreen Turf announce the winners of the 2024 Evergreen Turf & VRC Spring Internship. 

This prestigious opportunity has been awarded to two outstanding young racecourse employees: Angus Templeton from Moe Racing Club and Thomas Howle from Illawarra Turf Club.

These rising stars of the racing industry will have the unique chance to work alongside Liam O’Keeffe, the esteemed Racecourse Manager at the VRC, during the lead-up to and on Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes Day at Flemington Racecourse this Spring Carnival. This hands-on experience at one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most iconic racecourses will offer unparalleled insights into the preparation and execution of a major race day.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity

The Evergreen Turf & VRC Spring Internship is designed to nurture the next generation of Racecourse Managers by providing them with a comprehensive experience in managing large-scale events. Over the course of the internship, Angus and Thomas will shadow the VRC’s Racecourse Manager and Assistant Racecourse Manager, gaining firsthand knowledge of track preparations, race day operations, and media interactions. Their journey will include exclusive tours of other metropolitan racecourses, such as Moonee Valley Racing Club and Melbourne Racing Club, further broadening their industry perspectives.

Supporting the Future of the Racing Industry

This award not only highlights the commitment of Evergreen Turf and the VRC to fostering talent within the horse racing industry but also showcases the excitement and significance of the Spring Racing Carnival at Flemington. Both Angus and Thomas will also receive accommodation at Quest Flemington and, for the interstate winner, return airfares to Melbourne, ensuring they can fully immerse themselves in this extraordinary experience.

The Evergreen Turf & VRC Spring Internship program underscores the importance of nurturing the skills and knowledge of young professionals who are passionate about the racing industry. By participating in this internship, Angus and Thomas will gain invaluable experience that will enhance their careers and benefit their respective clubs.

Looking Ahead

Both winners will also attend the 2025 TAB ARMA Conference, where they will present the findings of their internship experience to industry peers. This will be a significant platform for them to share their insights and contribute to the ongoing development of racecourse management practices in Australia.

ARMA congratulates Angus Templeton and Thomas Howle on their achievement and look forward to seeing them thrive as they take the next step in their promising careers.

ARMA also wishes to acknowledge the generosity of both Evergreen Turf and the VRC for providing these opportunities. It truly is an amazing effort from both these businesses.