The Queensland Government has announced the Terms of Reference and Steering Committee for the most comprehensive review ever conducted into the state’s racing industry.
The independent Review is aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability for Thoroughbred, Harness and Greyhound racing in Queensland.
Three Queenslanders with specialised knowledge in each racing code have been appointed to the Steering Committee to assist Committee Chair Matthew McGrath, including:
- Scott Neaves (pictured) is a barrister with experience in both the Harness code and racing litigation. He had previously been President of the Marburg Pacing Association, as well as a member of the Harness Advisory Panel.
- Kym Daly has significant experience in Thoroughbred racing, delivering integrity services, training and consulting internationally. Mr Daly has stood down from his role as a steward with the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) to take on the role.
- Lynette Keep is a media and communications specialist with a strong background in all three racing codes. She holds a current Class 3 Greyhound trainer’s licence.
The Racing Review will consider key issues including supporting the prioritisation of care and welfare of racing animals, the need for fit for purpose infrastructure that supports all three racing codes and the effectiveness of existing governance arrangements.
Minister for Racing, Tim Mander said the appointees bring an exceptional blend of experience to support Mr McGrath.
“This is the most comprehensive review across all three codes to be carried out in Queensland, and it is imperative that we have a variety of experience and viewpoints involved,” Minister Mander said.
“The all-Queensland steering committee have been chosen for both their unique knowledge of the racing codes and broad spectrum of professional expertise.
“They will take on board the community and industry feedback from the Racing Review Discussion Paper process which recently closed, receiving more than 1200 submissions.
“The contributions have helped shape the terms of reference and will guide more targeted discussions.
“Labor spent too much time in the marquee and not enough time working with the industry that employs around 16,000 hard-working Queenslanders to keep it on track.
“It’s important that we get this right, so racing will continue to flourish and grow for decades to come,” he said.
