Racing Minister David Harris has announced Saranne Cooke as the first female chair of Racing NSW.
Cooke has been the deputy chair to Russell Balding for the past three years and sat on the board since 2015. She has been acting in the role as chair since November, when the Minns government abandoned controversial legislation to extend Racing NSW board members terms beyond 12 years, meaning Balding had to stand down.
Saranne Cooke takes over at a time when the governing body is fighting on multiple fronts.
Balding will be replaced on the board by former Labor Racing Minister Kevin Greene, who returns for a second spell on the board. Greene served for eight years between 2011 and 2018. Since then, the maximum tenure for board members has been extended from eight to 12 years, allowing him to return.
“The NSW government is committed to ensuring NSW remains the leading state for thoroughbred racing and a successful board is essential to that goal,” NSW Racing Minister David Harris said. “I would like to thank those involved in the selection process and those who put their names forward for the roles.
“I am pleased to announce Dr Cooke as the new chair of Racing NSW. Dr Cooke brings a wealth of experience to the chair role, having served on the board since 2015, including as the deputy chair.
“Dr Cooke is the perfect choice for the role, with the leadership skills needed to navigate the challenging economic headwinds facing the racing industry.”
Dr Cooke chairs both the Royal Flying Doctor Service (South Eastern Section) and the Australasian College of Sport and Exercise Physicians, and has PhD in corporate governance.
Greene brings his previous experience on the Racing NSW board and is also the chairman of the NSW Rugby League Referees Association, deputy chair of Cricket NSW and a NSW Rugby League director.
“Mr Greene has extensive experience in racing policy and governance at the highest level. He will make a valuable contribution to the Board,” Harris said.
“I look forward to the board working together to protect and enhance this important industry that delivers jobs and opportunities for communities right across NSW.”
With Cooke taking over as chair, Harris will reconvene a selection panel to consider expressions of interest from the remaining Racing NSW board members for the role of deputy chair.
Sports news, results and expert commentary. Sign up for our Sport newsletter.
