HRV welcomes new Board members

Two new members with extensive industry experience and major events expertise have been appointed to the Board of Harness Racing Victoria (HRV).

Minister for Racing Denis Napthine announced today the appointments to the Board of Elizabeth Clarke, a long standing harness racing club administrator and Ian Delmenico, a Senior Manager in major events, tourism and hospitality.

“When we seek to appoint new Board members to the racing industry controlling bodies, we look for a special mix of business and marketing experience with an understanding or passion for racing.  Both these appointees epitomise these qualities,” Dr Napthine said.

“Ian Delmenico has 26 years experience in major events logistics through his work at Spotless, where he currently holds a strategic role as General Manager, Hospitality and Retail.

“Mr Delmenico brings to HRV a wealth of business, marketing and financial expertise in major events management including the Australian Open Golf, Formula One Grand Prix, Spring Racing Carnival and management of significant venues across Australia including the Melbourne Town Hall, Suncorp Stadium and Subiaco Oval.

“Elizabeth Clarke brings a wealth of grass-roots racing experience, forged over more than 40 years experience including virtually every aspect of the harness racing industry. Mrs Clarke’s commitment to the industry was recognised in 2008 when she was awarded the Gordon Rothacker medal.

“Mrs Clarke’s extensive knowledge of the harness racing industry comes from years of service to country racing clubs including Terang, Hamilton and Ararat, as well as a number of important roles at HRV.

“HRV has embarked on a renewal, which has seen significant increases to attendances at country cups meetings. A number of new and innovative initiatives to broaden the interest in harness racing are also being rolled out.

“I am confident the experience of these new Board members will contribute to further growth and innovation within the harness racing industry.

“The Coalition Government is a strong supporter of harness racing, an industry worth over $284 million with more than 75 per cent of that generated in regional and rural Victoria.

“Harness racing is sharing in the $79.5 million Victorian Racing Industry Fund which is dedicated to growing the industry by improving racing infrastructure and increasing on-course attendances.”