To breeders, trainers, owners and industry participants,

My name is Vicky Leonard.

I founded The Thoroughbred Report because I believe our industry deserves transparency, accountability and leadership that can withstand scrutiny.

I am now defending a personal defamation action brought against me, TTR and our journalist by Peter V’landys in the Supreme Court of New South Wales.

The proceedings arise from an article published by The Thoroughbred Report that examined an important governance question: whether a 21-year CEO tenure is in the best interests of NSW horse racing.

The article addressed tenure and governance, published in the public interest at a time when the NSW Government is reviewing the Thoroughbred Racing Act.

The response has been Supreme Court litigation.

I have worked my entire professional life in the thoroughbred industry. I founded The Thoroughbred Report because I believe strong industries require transparency, accountability and the ability to ask reasonable questions of leadership.

A 'measured analysis' means we looked at the highs and the lows; the CEO only wants to talk about the highs, but the industry lives with the lows.

When governance commentary results in defamation proceedings, it raises a serious concern for everyone involved in this sport. The financial risk alone can deter scrutiny. That affects not just media, but every participant who may feel reluctant to speak openly.

Racing NSW has previously funded defamation litigation for Mr V’landys and he has not denied that Racing NSW is paying for this personal defamation case as well.

Every dollar spent on legal action is a dollar Racing NSW has effectively taken away from trainers, owners, participants, infrastructure and equine welfare. Industry funds should strengthen the sport - not be used to litigate against public interest journalism.

We have estimated legal costs to be:

Approximately $250,000 to reach the first decision hearing.

A further $500,000 through Phase 2 of proceedings.

If the matter proceeds to full trial, total costs could exceed well beyond $1 million.

Which is why we need your help.

Whether your contribution is small or significant, your support helps ensure that accountability and open discussion remain part of our industry’s future.

For larger contributions or direct transfers, please contact me directly.

I am going to defend this case because the principle matters. This fund has been established solely to meet the legal costs of defending this proceeding and to ensure that accountability and open discussion remain part of our industry’s future.

If we value strong governance in Australian racing, we must be prepared to defend it.

With appreciation and determination,

Vicky Leonard