Author

Bren O'Brien

Bren O'Brien's Latest Articles

Dubawi
Epsom win a window back into Dubawi’s dominance

While his sons and grandsons are making the headlines, Dubawi delivered a timely reminder of his own legacy with his sixth Australian Group 1 winner, God’s Window, who elevated himself to elite level with a memorable Epsom win.

Tim Mander
Mander outlines integrity safeguards under merged structure

Queensland racing minister Tim Mander has detailed safeguards for the state's proposed racing merger, including protection for the Chief Integrity Officer against direct dismissal by the board or chief executive, alongside a reform timetable for The Next Lap.

As One Pool launches, Tabcorp eyes tote-derivative deals in its next phase

A national tote has been a long time coming, but Tabcorp chief wagering officer Michael Fitzsimons says Friday’s launch is just one step on a journey to revive parimutuel betting, and that key initiatives, including a wholesale tote model, are underway.

Status anxiety – What the demotion of The Metropolitan tells us about the future of the Victoria Derby

The Victoria Racing Club is pulling out all stops to preserve the Group 1 status of the Victoria Derby, but the current uncertainty about its future has been a long time coming, writes Bren O’Brien.

Tabcorp to ban overseas TAB account use and expand bet-voiding powers

Tabcorp is introducing a host of changes, including residency and identity checks, to its accounts while widening controls on withdrawals and setting out how dividends can be declared.

ASIC raises syndicator limits but retains licence and disclosure rules

Horse racing syndicates can now raise up to $750,000 and accommodate up to 75 owners under a revamped ASIC regime, though regulators have retained strict licensing, disclosure, and governance obligations.

Run The Numbers – The elevated state of the global yearling market

With US$536 million spent across 12 sessions, the recently completed Keeneland September Sale was the highest-grossing yearling sale in history. Run The Numbers looks at whether it speaks only to the American market or reflects a broader global demand for elite bloodstock.

Racing Queensland posts lower surplus but growth in wagering powers a profitable year

Growth in returns from wagering helped keep Racing Queensland in the black in 2025/26, with a $6.6 million profit excluding government grants.

Graeme Hinton
Does Racing NSW’s rapid executive baton change help or hinder Graeme Hinton?

In the four days since Peter V’landys confirmed his departure, Racing NSW’s board has already chosen the man to replace him as chief executive. Graeme Hinton was the obvious choice, but Bren O’Brien questions whether the haste of his appointment might undermine how his leadership is perceived.

Graeme Hinton
Racing NSW board unanimous in appointing Graeme Hinton as new chief executive

Graeme Hinton will formally take over as Racing NSW chief executive on December 1, the day after Peter V’landys ends his 22-year tenure. Racing NSW says it consulted industry stakeholders before confirming Hinton as its next executive leader.

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