Racing SA has promoted from within to replace its outgoing chief executive Vaughn Lynch, with Nick Bawden to assume control of the regulator from February 1.
The principal racing authority on Friday confirmed that Bawden, who had been Racing SA’s general manager of operations since 2022, had been appointed following Lynch’s decision to join Racing Victoria next year as its chief operating officer under Aaron Morrison.
Bawden had previously been Racing SA’s industry operations and welfare manager after crossing from the Moonee Valley Racing Club where he held an executive position.
“I am excited to lead Racing SA and build on the great work of Vaughn Lynch,” Bawden said.
“My vision is to enhance our vibrant racing community, making participation—whether through work, volunteering, training, riding, wagering, or ownership—more appealing.
“Thoroughbred racing is vital to South Australian culture, heritage and growing economy. I look forward to working together to create a more sustainable and inclusive future for racing in SA.”
Racing SA chair Rob Rorrison said the board had considered numerous applicants for the pivotal role prior to settling on Bawden.
“We are delighted that Nick has accepted this role. He has been an integral part of our management team, driving our business forward in alignment with our strategic plan. Over the past year, he and the team have achieved significant milestones,” Rorrison said.
“Our search confirmed that the Australian racing community recognises our achievements and views Racing SA as a resilient and well-managed organisation.
“Nick is highly regarded by our stakeholders, who warmly welcome his appointment. This selection reflects our commitment to promoting from within, ensuring that a candidate who has consistently contributed to our team is well-equipped to tackle future challenges and drive our progress."
Bawden will take the helm of Racing SA at a time when the regulator is forecasting a $2.9 million deficit in the 2024/25 financial year. It returned a $1.4 million operating surplus last financial year.
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Racing SA generated a record $96.7 million in revenue in 2023/24, helped by a 4.7 per cent year-on-year increase in wagering revenue contributions of $50.1 million.
“Despite a decline in wagering turnover after the unsustainable levels that were achieved during COVID-19, Racing SA’s favourable agreement with wagering service providers delivered a 4.7 per cent increase in betting operations contribution (BOC) revenue,” Lynch wrote in the Racing SA annual report.
“The current agreements end in June 2025 and Racing SA is diligently evaluating options to secure future revenue targets in a softening wagering market that is being impacted by economic headwinds and increased regulatory obligations.”
Lynch replaced Nick Redin as Racing SA CEO in 2022 having also been promoted from within the organisation.
Bren O’Brien
