I am pleased to announce that Tasracing’s Acting Chair has been appointed as the new Chair, following the tragic loss of Brian Speers.
New Chair Dean Cooper’s experience as Deputy Chair and a member of Tasracing’s board since 2009 means he is well placed to guide the company as wagering turnover grows and Tasmania’s product becomes more popular.
Dean is a Barrister and Solicitor with a longstanding interest in harness racing as an owner and administrator. He is Honorary Legal Counsel for Harness Racing Australia (HRA) and Chairman of the HRA Rules Committee. He is also a former Harness Racing Tasmania Chairman and TOTE Tasmania Director, as well as a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
I have worked closely with Dean in recent months, particularly during the code consultation meetings in August. I am grateful for the leadership provided by Dean and CEO Eliot Forbes during recent months as we came to terms with the loss of Brian Speers, and the challenges Tasracing is facing financially.
The Director vacancy created by Brian’s passing will be advertised in coming months.
I am also grateful for the contribution that retiring Director (Harness Code) Trevor Leis has made since joining the board in 2009. Trevor’s long service and commitment to the harness code and to Tasracing is to be commended.
I am pleased to announce that Joel Wallace has been appointed as Director (Harness Code) as Trevor retires. Joel is a chartered accountant, a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and has held past director roles in not-for-profit and private businesses. Joel is the president of the Launceston Pacing Club and is actively involved with the harness industry.
I look forward to continuing to work with Tasracing and the broader racing community over the coming year towards a more sustainable industry with a secure future.
Jeremy Rockliff, Minister for Racing
