Mary Collier chosen to oversee sweeping reforms to Queensland racing

Racing Queensland has appointed experienced racing administrator Mary Collier to oversee the rollout of sweeping reforms recommended by the Queensland Racing Review, a government-backed blueprint aimed at reshaping the state’s industry.

Collier will begin with Racing Queensland on Monday, where she will establish an implementation team to drive the review’s recommendations that have been endorsed by the Queensland Government, with a detailed rollout plan to be developed in the new year.

The reforms encompass significant legislative change, operational restructuring and infrastructure investment to deliver what the government has described as a generational reset for Queensland racing.

Earlier this month, Racing Minister Tim Mander released the government’s formal response to the independent review, which was overseen by Matt McGrath with assistance from Kym Daly, Lynette Keep and Scott Neaves. 

The government accepted 79 of the 110 recommendations of the McGrath report without reservation and other 26 in principle while rejecting five of the recommendations, including the reduction of the Point of Consumption Tax from 20 to 15 per cent.

Under The Next Lap plan, Albion Park will become home to Racing Queensland and the integrity body, the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission, while money has been set aside to help fund the construction of a new grandstand at metropolitan venue Eagle Farm.

Harness racing will also be re-established at Toowoomba, with the turf club to become a dual-code venue.

The review attracted submissions from more than 1200 stakeholders, including owners, trainers, breeders, clubs, racing fans and animal welfare advocates.

Minister Mander said the measures outlined in The Next Lap would be implemented progressively.

“The Crisafulli Government has delivered a plan which presents an opportunity for generational change in Queensland racing,” he said.

“RQ has been tasked with implementing the reforms outlined in The Next Lap, and I look forward to a timeline being handed to government by April 2026.

“Mary Collier’s extensive background in racing administration and positive relationships across the industry made her the ideal choice to lead this process.”

Collier brings more than 20 years’ experience across the racing and wagering sectors, having previously held senior executive and board roles with Racing Queensland, the National Jockeys’ Association and the former Brisbane Turf Club, as well as industry associations and wagering bodies.

Most recently, she served as president of Tattersall’s Racing Club and vice-president of Tattersall’s Club, becoming the first woman elected to the club’s board in its 140-year history.

“I truly believe everyone in the industry has a role to play to secure the long-term strength of racing in Queensland,” Collier said.

“The Next Lap provides the clear roadmap, but it’s what comes next that is critical to the plan’s success.

“As recommendations move into implementation, ongoing consultation and constructive cooperation across the industry are paramount as is disciplined sequencing and transparency.

“It is an equally exciting and challenging time, and I can’t wait to get started.

“In accepting this role, I have also resigned from my role as president of Tattersall’s Racing Club to ensure best practice governance and independence.”