Decorated horse trainer Robert Smerdon banned for life

Decorated Victorian horse trainer Robert Smerdon has been banned for life for his part in racing’s Aquanita scandal.

Fellow trainers Stuart Webb (four years) and Tony Vasil (three years) have also been handed suspensions from the sport.

Smerdon, a multiple Group 1 winning trainer, was found guilty and handed the ban by the RAD board on Thursday.

His behaviour was described as “scandalous conduct”.

Stablehands Greg and Denise Nelligan also received life bans.

Trent Pennuto (two years), Daniel Garland and Liam Birchley (one year) were also suspended.