Veteran trainer Evan Holland is undergoing surgery on a broken left humerus after an accident at Newcastle races.

Racing NSW said Holland was attempting to put a lead on Eletrolado in the mounting area following the first race on Thursday, and was seen on the ground shortly after.

He was taken to John Hunter Hospital where he was undergoing surgery on his arm on Thursday evening.

Now in his 80s, Holland worked alongside his late trainer brother Tiger at Randwick for many years and prepares a small team at Wyong on the NSW Central Coast.