Former TV presenter and ex-Queensland Labor MP Chris Bombolas has been appointed to the new role of chief operating officer at Albion Park Harness Racing Club. The former sports reporter and NRL match caller spent more than two decades at Channel 9 in Brisbane before serving a term as a Labor MP for the seat of Chatsworth from 2006 to 2009.
Bombolas is also a former chairman of A-League club Brisbane Roar and his most recent role has been as a media specialist with the Office Of Industrial Relations.
Bombolas said he was looking forward to guiding Albion Park through an exciting period, including finding a new permanent home.
“With the countdown on for the 2032 Olympics, we’re seeking a new home sooner rather than later,” he told News Corp. “That’s a priority of the club and Racing Queensland, so let’s get the whips cracking and get it done.”
His appointment to the new role follows the standing down of CEO Scott Steele, on full pay, pending the outcome of his trial on rape and sexual assault charges.
Should Steele be cleared of the charges, he can return to his role at the club.
Albion Park, which hosts Brisbane’s harness and greyhound racing, was one of the worst-hit sporting facilities in South East Queensland following the recent devastating floods.
Brisbane Greyhound Racing Club and the Albion Park Harness Racing Club joined forces to rebuild the two tracks.