Queensland racing authorities have suspended the licenses of two thoroughbred horse racing participants.
It comes after a photo was widely circulated allegedly depicting a jockey holding an object in his hand that looks similar to a jigger at Birdsville race track on Tuesday.
Training has been underway in the lead-up to the iconic Birdsville Races, which are expected to attract more than 6,000 spectators and jockeys to the tiny outback town.
A jigger is a small taser-like device that can be used to administer an electric shock to a horse to condition it to run faster.
The use of jiggers is banned in horse racing.
Queensland's Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) has confirmed it is investigating the photo.
"QRIC is aware of the photographs uploaded to social media last night and can confirm that an investigation is underway," a spokesperson said.
Queensland Racing Integrity Commissioner Shane Gillard said the body takes allegations of animal cruelty very seriously and will take all steps necessary to protect animals involved in racing.
"One of QRIC's key functions is to safeguard the welfare of any animal involved in racing, and we will take all steps necessary to protect animals involved in racing," he said.
"If a licence is suspended, a participant cannot partake in any activity relevant to the licence category they hold."
Jiggers made headlines in 2019 when prominent horse trainer Darren Weir was banned for four years after police seized several devices from his stables near Ballarat and Warrnambool in Victoria.
The Birdsville Cup is due to kick off on Friday and offers $42,000 in total prize money before bonuses.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the Birdsville Race Club said they were aware of a photo circulating on social media regarding track work at the Birdsville Races.
"This is a matter for the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission," the spokesperson said.
"We will not be making any further comment on the matter at this time."
