The Leading Women of Cluden Park: International Women's Day 2023

International Women’s Day is a celebration of the social, economic, cultural and professional achievements of women around the world.

Today we recognise the progress made towards gender equality by acknowledging Townsville women currently leading the way for Cluden Park.

This year’s theme is to Embrace Equity. People start from different places, so true inclusion and belonging require equitable action. When we embrace equity, we embrace diversity and inclusion.

Meet the influential women of Cluden Park. 

Sue Byrnes – Committee Member

For the past three years, Sue has been a valuable member of the committee, lending her expertise and dedication to the industry.

Her family has been an integral part of the industry for over 40 years, with a strong history of breeding and racing thoroughbreds.

Over the course of her tenure on the committee, Sue has played a crucial role in the renovation of the Club's facilities and Membership experiences, and the results speak for themselves. The club has seen success thanks in no small part to Sue's hard work and commitment. 

Sue on embracing equity: 

‘Serena Williams states, “Every woman’s success should be an inspiration to another. We’re stronger when we cheer each other on.”

'I believe to embrace this allows us to forge harmony and drive success for all levels of industry and partners.’

Debbie Rains – Committee Member

Entering her second consecutive year as a member of the committee, Debbie was first introduced to the industry 15 years ago when she joined a ladies only syndicate.

A business owner of more than 30 years, Debbie is proud to be part of an organisation that provides opportunities for all women to participate in any of the varied roles that make up the racing industry.

Debbie on embracing equity:

‘Women are well represented across the vast array of positions that makes the industry happen. Cluden Park’s show of diversity demonstrates their ability to embrace equity, visible by our committee, General Manager, premiership leading trainers, jockeys, and all the staff in-between doing a fantastic job for our industry.’

Natalie Rintala – General Manager

Natalie Rintala has been at the administrative helm of Cluden Park since the end of 2018. Natalie’s tenure has been marked by a string of achievements that have elevated the club to new heights. Under her leadership, the club has undergone a successful rebrand, welcomed 10-year attendance records to Winter Racing Carnivals, and the implementation of a positive and productive workplace culture.

Natalie has also deftly guided the club through a series of unprecedented challenges. In the aftermath of the devastating 2019 Townsville flood, Natalie oversaw the rebuilding of facilities to state-of-the-art level. Following on, Natalie expertly navigated the local racing industry through the unprecedented hurdles presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Natalie on embracing equity:

‘Cluden Park strives for equity and equality in the workplace, and on the track. We acknowledge that there is a great diversity amongst those connected to the industry in Townsville, from our local trainers, jockeys, and stable hands to those working behind the barriers in integrity roles.

We have a strong female representation in our hospitality sector and are well represented on our committee. Your contributions are significant and this week we celebrate you.’

Georgie Holt – Trainer

Georgie Holt is a leading trainer local to Townsville. At time of writing, Georgie leads the 2023 Trainers Premiership with 17 wins, six wins clear of second place. Georgie’s stellar 2022/23 season so far has also seen her journey to Brisbane with veteran galloper, Bold Kingston. Bold Kingston turned his career around after joining the Holt Racing stable, a winning run that saw him qualify for the Country Cups Challenge Final at Doomben in December last year.

Despite not getting the win at Doomben, Georgie has two pieces of silverware to her name for 2022/23 after winning the Pallarenda Stakes 2YO Fillies Maiden Plate in October last year with Average Jane, and the Townsville Amateur Cup with Siren Rock in November.

Georgie on embracing equity:

‘My side of the racing industry is already well positioned regarding gender equality and equity. For instance, unlike many other sports/industries, female trainers and jockeys all receive equal prize money. 

‘Equity is to be fair and impartial, and the racing industry is fair between men and women. It doesn’t discriminate and we all play by the same rules and have the same opportunities. There’s no separation, it is widely appreciated, accepted, and admired that men and women can compete directly against each other in this sport and neither require a concession to reach that playing field.’

Isabella Teh – Apprentice Jockey

Isabella Teh is Townsville’s current leading apprentice jockey having notched up eight wins to date.

Isabella’s win tally also places her inside the Top 10 for the Jockeys Premiership.

Isabella relocated to Townsville mid last year to progress her riding career – a decision which has turned out considerably in her favour as she’s on her way to improve on her single season wins PB.

Isabella on embracing equity:

‘From a jockey’s perspective, this industry is well on the rise towards being equitable and equal. Regarding equality, this is one of the few professions where all jockeys are paid equally regardless of gender.

‘Regarding equity, we all work in a fair playing field. We all race the same races, need to reach the same weights, and the same opportunities are available to us all.

‘For those opportunities, we all need to work hard physically and mentally. As a female jockey, I work very hard to improve my strength, but I don’t have to work as hard as most men on keeping my weight down.

'Despite this, I would love to see more female jockeys amongst the elite ranks. 

‘I feel that there is a shift within the industry that equity is being embraced more each day.’