Recent amendments to the Racing Act by Minister for Racing Martin Pakula required Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) to establish a Harness Racing Advisory Council (Council).

The legislated functions of the Council are to:

• Advise the Board on matters concerning harness racing; and
• Facilitate consultation between the Board and harness racing industry participants.

Consistent with the legislation (s44B(3) of the Racing Act) the HRV Board established criteria/guidelines for the appointment of Council members.  In summary they are:

• Nominees of industry groups
• Young participants
• Gender representation
• Punter representation
• Marketing/strategy expertise

In addition two members of the Board are appointed.

Following consultation with the Minister, the HRV Board has appointed the following people to the Harness Racing Advisory Council:

Elizabeth Clarke (Chairperson)                               HRV Board

Wendy Greiner                                                            HRV Board

Paul James                                                                 Clubs nominee

Lance Justice                                                             Trainers and Drivers nominee

Tony Britt                                                                     Breeders nominee

Carol Bass                                                                 Owners nominee

Michael Taranto                                                        Trotters nominee

Matthew Craven                                                        HRV Appointee

Lisa Miles                                                                    HRV Appointee

Craig Nott                                                                    HRV Appointee

Desiree Pettit-Keating                                              HRV Appointee

The appointments are for an initial period ending 30 June 2016.

HRV Chairman Ken Latta said the Board was appreciative of all those who expressed interest in a position on the Council.  “The Board believes there is a good balance of demographic, gender and skill set to make a positive contribution to the industry, ” Mr Latta said.

The Council will operate in accordance with a Charter which is being finalised by the Board and will be available on the website.  The Council is likely to have its inaugural meeting early in the New Year.

Click here for the relevant section of the Racing Act relating to the establishment of the Harness Racing Advisory Council.

HARNESS RACING VICTORIA