Trainer to fight charges
COUNTRY racing stalwart Stan Johnston has been left stunned by allegations of animal cruelty against him and will fight the charges that threaten to end his tenure as the biggest supporter of bush racing in Queensland.
Johnston, who races the familiar “Craiglea” named horses around the state, has been charged by the Queensland Racing Crime Squad under the Animal Care and Protection Act with two counts of animal cruelty and two counts of use of a prohibited “thing”, and given notice to appear in Rockhampton Magistrates Court on November 14.
He also faces other charges and has had his stable hand licence suspended. It is alleged Johnston was involved in the gelding of two colts “without preparatory pain relief”.
Johnston’s daughter Krystle, who trains the Craiglea group of horses, was also charged, as was Rockhampton trainer John Pointon.
Johnston and Pointon’s legal representative Peter Boyce said his client “absolutely took pain-killing measures” and will fight the charges.
“He and John are devastated by the fact that anyone would even think they would ever be cruel to animals,” Boyce said.
“Stan has withstood the test of time and he has for many, many years been a leader in making sure his animals are fully and properly cared for.
“He has a fantastic name and is a wonderful contributor to our community.
“John Pointon is a person that has been involved with animals all his life as well.
“Stewards have been to each of Stan and John’s properties and have no complaint at all at the way the horses are kept and the condition of those horses.”
Johnston has a long history in helping charities related to rural Queensland, including driving thousands of kilometres to help feed animals in need.
“He’s driven all over the state to make sure horses and cattle aren’t starving,” Boyce said. “It’s just such a contrary charge.”
Johnston has been given notice to appear in Rockhampton Magistrates Court on November 14.