Newly appointed Australian Turf Club chairman Tim Hale has outlined his top priorities for the organisation, pledging to rebuild trust with members, reform the club’s funding model, and explore the strategic potential of surplus land holdings.
Hale was elected as chairman at the end of July, following the recent resignation of former chairman Peter McGauran. McGauran stepped down shortly after the club failed to secure enough member votes to proceed with the proposed sale of Rosehill Gardens Racecourse.
“The proposed Rosehill Gardens sale has distracted the Board’s attention over the past 18 months and gives cause for us to refocus on our services and offerings,’’ Hale said.
“I have spent a lot of time speaking with members at the track and there is an urgent need to build our Membership base, and with that, greater attendance on course throughout the year.”
Hale, a senior counsel, said his focus would be on reconnecting with members and delivering stronger governance.
“The Board needs to support members and the industry, and this comes by listening to their concerns and following through with proper governance,” he said.
“With that, we also must look at our property interests and most particularly the development of some surplus land at Rosehill Gardens around the Camellia precinct.”
Hale steps into the chairmanship at a turbulent time for the club, which is also currently embroiled in a legal dispute with developer Mirvac over plans to build residential apartments on land at Canterbury Park Racecourse.
In his statement, Hale said the club must build a long-term strategy “to take our club and Sydney racing into the future,” while reaffirming the central role of racing in the ATC’s identity.
“Racing is at the very heart of everything we do at the Australian Turf Club and the Board and I are fully focussed on making our racing and raceday offerings second to none.”
At the same meeting, board member and racing broadcaster Caroline Searcy was elected vice-chair.
“We are coming towards one of the most exciting times of the year with the Sydney Spring and the Everest Carnival which is captivating the world,” she said.
“With Tim and our fellow directors I look forward to working with Members and industry stakeholders in bringing a renewed focus to our wonderful racing.”