Having built his power base from a hotly contested and highly politicised 2024 committee election, chairman John Kanga has been reappointed as a Melbourne Racing Club board member without fanfare and without competition.
A simple message to members on Tuesday advised that Kanga, Allison Saville and Frank Pollio would all be re-elected at the annual general meeting (AGM) on September 25.
This was due to the fact that no further nominations were received.
That is quite a contrast to last year when an explosive AGM meeting was held despite legal threats. Kanga eventually saw off the challenge of former vice-chairman Nick Hassett in the battle to succeed Matt Cain, whose time as chairman had come to an end.
This time around, extending the term of the three board members proved a mere formality.
“I congratulate my colleagues Alison Saville and Frank Pollio on joining me in re-election to the executive committee,” Kanga said.
“Their experience and deep commitment to the club have been instrumental in driving our recent successes, and I look forward to building on that momentum together.”
There are currently nine members of the MRC Committee.
Committee member Barb Saunders resigned in June, amid the fallout following the departure of former chief executive Tom Reilly, citing governance concerns.
At that time, Tanya Fullarton was appointed as chief operating officer, and has since been re-titled as acting chief executive officer.
The MRC also appointed new members to the Mornington Advisory Group (MAG).
“I warmly welcome new MAG members David Gambell and Sally Jarvis alongside the reappointment of Stephen Foster and Stephen Conley,” Kanga said.
“Their combined skills, insights and passion for racing will help strengthen our engagement with members and the community, particularly in Mornington.”
Kanga stated the achievements the club had made since the change in committee leadership.
“We have saved racing at Sandown, reinstated the Caulfield mounting yard to its rightful place in front of the winning post, and halted an unnecessary $240 million grandstand at Caulfield,” he said.
“We have also negotiated a $195 million sale of excess land to eliminate debt and reinvest in racing, while introducing more affordable food, beverage, admission pricing and memberships, and prioritising participants and owners.
“Our job is not finished, and we will continue to ensure that the MRC remains financially strong, with an ongoing focus on the needs of members, participants and racing enthusiasts.”
