Racing NSW board appoints first female chair

Dr Saranne Cooke has been appointed as chair of Racing NSW, the first woman to hold the position.

Cooke has been deputy chair since December 2021, and has been on the board since 2015. She is currently also chair of both the Royal Flying Doctor Service (South Eastern section) and the Australasian College of Sport and Exercise Physicians.

Her appointment leaves the role of deputy chair vacant. A selection panel will consider expressions of interest and prepare a list of recommended members for the role.

Meanwhile, former Minister for Gaming and Racing and Sport and Recreation, the Hon Kevin Greene AM has been appointed as an ordinary member of the board. This will be the second time he has been on the board, having served between 2011 and 2018.

“I would like to thank those involved in the selection process and those who put their names forward for the roles,” said the Minister for Gaming and Racing NSW. “I look forward to the board working together to protect and enhance this important industry that delivers jobs and opportunities for communities right across NSW.”