NSW Racing Minister Troy Grant has announced John Messara will continue as Racing NSW chairman, appointed for another three years.
Four appointments to the board were made, with current board members Messara and Russell Balding continuing in their board roles. Balding has been elevated to Deputy Chairman.
The two outgoing board members are Ken Brown and Naseema Sparks, replaced by new board additions Saranne Cook and Jennifer Owen.
Messara was instrumental in the set-up of The Championships, a rich new carnival for NSW racing in autumn.
Racing NSW recently were also a key player in a cross-code win for the state, with tax legislation changes in NSW putting more money in the coffers for thoroughbred, harness, and greyhounds racing. Racing NSW further boosted prizemoney for country racing with announcements in November.
Messara also acts as chairman of Racing Australia, which on Wednesday held off on proposed new and mandatory helmets for jockeys, which has been vehemently opposed by a number of riders for a range of safety reasons.
ScottWoodward.me
Roar Guru
Jason There is a middle road.
Jason Cornell
Guest
Scott, You would have to agree better than QLD where board members cannot own a horse or be a race club member. I think NSW and Vic pretty happy to have John and David Moodie #skininthegame
ScottWoodward.me
Roar Guru
I am sure John Messara is a good bloke and nothing personal against him, but to have an owner of a major stud just underlines one of the many reasons why NSW Racing have so many problems. The conflict of interest here is immense and should have been averted. Surely the Minister could have found someone who does not focus on 2 yo sprinters.
peeeko
Guest
well its essential that the rich breeding industry gets to run things.