Industry Release - Help from public required

Harness Racing SA
17 February 2026

Public Urged to Help Identify Those Responsible for Arson at Globe Derby Park
Harness Racing South Australia (HRSA) is calling on the public to assist police in identifying those responsible for a deliberate arson attack on a vehicle at Globe Derby Park on the evening of Saturday, 14 February 2026.
The Metropolitan Fire Service and South Australia Police (SAPOL) responded immediately. The matter is now the subject of an active investigation by Crime Scene Investigation and the Criminal Investigation Branch.
HRSA Chairman Dr Carlo D’Ortenzio said the incident represents a deeply concerning escalation in criminal behaviour which will not be tolerated trackside.
“This was a deliberate and dangerous act carried out while people were present on course,” Dr D’Ortenzio said.
“It represents a serious escalation of criminal conduct that has targeted members of a leading stable since December 2025.
“The safety of our participants, our horses and the public is non-negotiable. Criminality has no place in harness racing, and we will not tolerate conduct that endangers lives or the integrity of our sport.”
HRSA is assisting SAPOL to the fullest extent possible. A HRSA Inquiry is open and will proceed in line with SAPOL priorities to ensure the criminal investigation is not compromised.
Dr D’Ortenzio said any individual found to be involved would face the strongest possible consequences from an industry participation perspective.
“If any registered person is found to be involved in arson, property damage, sabotage, conspiracy or assisting such conduct, HRSA will pursue the full suite of powers available under the Australian Harness Racing Rules.
“Conduct of this nature sits at the extreme end of seriousness and will attract the strongest possible response.”
Public Call for Information
HRSA again urges anyone with information — no matter how minor it may seem — to come forward.
Police are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was present at Globe Derby Park on Saturday, 14 February 2026, who observed:

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A person riding an e-bike in the drivers’ and trainers’ car park area between 9:45pm and 10:00pm;
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Any person loitering or acting suspiciously in or around the drivers’ and trainers’ car park, or on the roadway passing the car park, between 9:45pm and 10:45pm;
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Suspicious vehicle movements or behaviour in the area; or
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Any other information that may assist investigators.
Information can be provided to:
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South Australia Police via Crime Stoppers (can be anonymous) on 1800 333 000
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Harness Racing South Australia via (08) 8285 0700
“Harness racing in South Australia is built on safety, integrity and collective responsibility. If you know something, say something. Help us protect our people, our horses and our industry as small pieces of information often unlock critical breakthroughs,”,” said D’Ortenzio.

Media Contact for More information
Via HRSA CEO’s office: Email: saharness@saharness.org.au