Industry heavyweight Gai Waterhouse has weighed in to support John Messara and others who have opposed the proposed extension of Racing NSW chairman, Russell Balding’s term of office for another 2 years, and taken aim at the NSW Trainers Association's stance in the process.
The issue centres around Balding having his term extended on the Racing NSW board by the NSW Govt for a third time, which will see his tenure stretch to 14 years, well beyond the statutory eight.
Messara yesterday led the calls against the move, labelling it “bad governance” of which Waterhouse agrees.
“I was not consulted by the NSW Trainers Association when it sent a letter supporting Mr Balding’s chairmanship term extension and have not spoken to anyone who was consulted,” said Waterhouse.
“I would not have supported it and agree with John Messara and Katie Page that it would reflect bad governance.
“Anyone who knows anything about racing would generally respect and back John Messara, who is the doyen of Australian racing.
“I also think that is very important that any refresh of the Racing NSW board selects directors that have good experience and knowledge of racing.”
