Applications open for the 2025 Les Young Scholarship

Media Release - Thursday April 17

Young professionals in the thoroughbred breeding industry have a unique opportunity to enhance their careers, with applications now open for the 2025 Les Young Scholarship.

Click here for more info.

The prestigious scholarship provides funding to undertake an international course and paid placement at the renowned National Stud in the UK.

Named in honour of Les Young, a respected figure in the thoroughbred industry, the scholarship upholds his legacy of mentorship and talent development. Les was a bloodstock agent, journalist, and long-serving member of Thoroughbred Breeders NSW, as well as a foundation member and vice president of the NSW Racehorse Owners Association.

In 1995, he co-founded the Equine Advisory Committee under the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation, driving funding for equine research. Today, the AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Program continues to support industry sustainability through research and development.

Who can apply?

The scholarship is open to individuals aged 18–25 who have at least two years of industry experience in breeding, bloodstock, spelling, or racing and intend to continue contributing to the thoroughbred industry.

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Applicants must submit a written application addressing their industry experience, long-term goals, and perspectives on key industry challenges and opportunities, along with two letters of support and a current resume.

Key dates

Applications close: 5 pm (AEST), Wednesday, 30 April 2025

Selection process concludes: Wednesday, 14 May 2025

Successful candidate notified: Thursday, 29 May 2025

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