Racing Victoria’s acting chairman Mike Hirst to step down from board

Mike Hirst, who has acted as chairman of Racing Victoria since last July, has confirmed he will retire from the board at the end of May.

Hirst, whose tenure on the board was only extended in October, was expected to step away along with another long-term board servant Greg Nichols, with the likely ascent of former AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan to the chairman role in the coming weeks.

But while an extraordinary general meeting has been called for next Wednesday to determine the future direction and make-up of the board, Hirst has said that while he will be leaving, it won’t be until May.

“As the new chairman of AMP, I need to focus my energy on that role. This affords an opportunity for a new director to join the Racing Victoria board to help shape the future of Victorian racing,” Hirst said.

“In announcing my retirement from the Board, I want to thank my fellow Directors, and the management and staff of Racing Victoria, for their tireless efforts to ensure a vibrant and sustainable industry, often without praise or fanfare.

“Their lot is not an easy one and their contribution to the industry is continually underrated by many.

“Having previously been a stablehand and pre-trainer, I have developed a great love for horses, so I will remain an active member and supporter of Victorian racing beyond May, and I hope to breed and race a Group 1 winner in the not-too-distant future.”

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Hirst joined the RV board in October 2015 and was appointed acting chairman from October 2016 after the departure of David Moodie, a role he held until October 2017, when Brian Kruger assumed the chairmanship.  

He was again appointed as interim chair from July 2023 after Kruger departed the board.

Hirst’s replacement on the RV Board will be determined by Victoria’s Minister for Racing, Anthony Carbines.

“As a passionate racing fan, owner and breeder, it’s been an honour to serve on the Racing Victoria board and help drive the growth of Victorian racing,” Hirst said.