Experienced racing administrator Peter Downs is making a return to the thoroughbred industry as the new chief executive of the Ballarat Turf Club.
Downs, who worked briefly in the Queensland mining industry after leaving the Australian Turf Club (ATC) earlier this year, will start his new role on September 2.
“I realised how much I loved and missed racing,” he posted on X, formerly Twitter, in confirming his new role.
“I can't wait to get back to Victoria closer to family and friends. I'm extremely excited to be working with such a great race club at Ballarat.”
Downs will replace outgoing chief executive Belinda Glass.
Downs was the boss of Warrnambool Race Club from 2015 until 2019 before holding various roles at the Moonee Valley Racing Club, South Australian Harness Racing Club, and Tabcorp.
He left the ATC in March after serving as the manager of racing operations, training facilities, and events.
"We are delighted to secure someone with Peter's experience for this important role," said Ballarat chairman Bill Gribble.
"He has a wealth of knowledge and understanding of racing and its importance to the local communities.
“As we all know the racing industry at Ballarat is a vibrant and important part of the wider Ballarat community.”
