McLean faced the Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board (RAD) on Monday morning to answer the charges after raids on properties connected to him and disgraced fellow trainer Darren Weir in January.

McLean, who was the Warrnambool foreman for Weir, faces charges that relate to possession of "jiggers" (an electric or electronic apparatus capable of affecting the performance of a horse), failure to give evidence at an inquiry, failure to comply with a direction of the stewards and conduct prejudicial to the image, interests or welfare of racing.

However, RAD said on Monday the charges have been amended to possession of an electric or electronic apparatus capable of affecting the performance of a horse and conduct prejudicial to the image, interests or welfare of racing in that McLean possessed a "jigger" and failed to "proffer an explanation to the stewards".

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Today's hearing was closed to the media minutes after it began.

The RAD Board subsequently adjourned the matter until September 3 for a directions hearing. No explanation has been given at this stage as to why the case has been delayed.

McLean has proclaimed his innocence since the four charges were first handed down.

The RAD board also postponed McLean's hearing in February and gave no reason for the delay.

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