The six-time Southern District Racing Association (SDRA) premiership winner has been suspended, effective immediately, as a result of horses he trained allegedly being slaughtered.

In a letter Sutherland sent to owners on the weekend, he wrote that he would acknowledge that he "unintentionally and unknowingly" broke the rules around the re-homing of retired racehorses but strongly denies he sent horses to a third party with the expectation that they would be euthanised.

Racing NSW chairman of stewards Marc Van Gestel confirmed Sutherland had been suspended but was unable to provide further comment on Monday.

Sutherland insisted he had "nothing to hide" but could not offer further comment at this stage in proceedings.

Sutherland told owners that he understood the horses were going to be re-trained for "other equine pursuits" and would have found another home had he known they were likely to be killed.

He also stood by his clean record after more than 20 years as a trainer.

"I stand by my long record of horse welfare, having successfully re-homed hundreds of horses in my more than 20 years as a licensed trainer," Sutherland wrote to owners.

"I have never before been suspended or faced charges and I take pride in our horses' wellbeing, which I believe is well demonstrated by the longevity many through my stable have enjoyed on the racetrack and retiring sound thereafter."

Sutherland had nominated six horses for Thursday's showcase meeting at Wagga, including Real Key and Gentleman Max in the $35,000 Ian Reid Sprint (1000m), but is unable to start them.

A date for an inquiry has not been set.

READ MORE