New independent Racing NT Board has been appointed to lead industry reform, chaired by national expert, Gene Phair.The Territory's racing industry adds $160 million to the economy, supporting over 1,000 local jobs, and attracting visitors to our regions.The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering on the strategic review to secure the future of racing.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government has appointed the inaugural board of Racing NT, marking a significant milestone in reforms to strengthen governance, provide long-term certainty and support future growth in the Territory's vibrant racing industry.
Minister for Racing, Marie-Clare Boothby, said the appointment of the Board was a big step in implementing the recommendations of the Strategic Review of the NT Racing Industry, and was focused on positioning the industry for long-term growth.
"We said we would deliver reform that provides certainty to industry, and a clear path forward for racing in the Territory, and that's exactly what we're doing," Minister Boothby said.
"Racing is a major contributor to the Territory economy, generating around $160 million each year and supporting around 1,000 jobs - particularly in our regions, where it drives visitors to see more and spend more.
"Racing NT will provide strong, independent governance and the strategic leadership needed to support a sustainable, resilient and growing industry."
The Board will be chaired by Mr Gene Phair, who has served as Chair of Tasracing since 2018. Mr Phair brings extensive racing governance, commercial leadership, and industry experience.
Mr Phair said he was honoured to be appointed Chair and looked forward to working with the Board, industry participants, clubs, and stakeholders.
"This is an important opportunity to build a strong and sustainable future for racing in the Northern Territory," Mr Phair said.
"I look forward to working with industry participants, clubs and stakeholders to strengthen governance, support growth and ensure racing continues to deliver for communities across the Territory."
The other appointed Board members include:
Shane Thornton, a self-employed consultant with senior experience in NT Government investment, corporate advisory, commercial banking, and Territory sporting boards.Phillip Leslie, a consultant and Chair of the NT Education Minister's Non-Government Schools Advisory Council, with senior executive experience across licensing, finance, governance, sport, recreation, and racing.Sean Parnell, a retiring NT Police Detective Superintendent and former Director-General of Licensing NT, with extensive public sector, governance, and committee experience.Sierra Ferguson, General Manager and Chief Financial Officer with experience in financial management, business ownership, insurance, travel operations, and Territory enterprise.
The new board combines national expertise with local knowledge, with members drawn from law enforcement and finance, as well as the sport and travel industries. The board will ensure that Racing NT remains independent, while grounded in and delivering for the Territory's growing racing industry.
Racing NT will become the independent Race Control Body for thoroughbred and greyhound racing in the Northern Territory, after the Government passed significant reforms through the Racing and Wagering Act 2024.
The body will oversee the management, regulation, and promotion of racing in the Territory, with a focus on integrity, animal welfare, commercial growth and long-term sustainability.
Minister Boothby said the establishment of Racing NT would build confidence for participants, clubs, investors, and the broader industry.
"This is about setting the Territory's vibrant racing industry up for long-term success," she said.
"I want to acknowledge and thank the members of the NT Racing and Wagering Commission for their important work as the previous control body for greyhound racing.
"I recognise the Board and staff of Thoroughbred Racing NT for their valuable contribution as the control body for horse racing in the Territory and thank them for their continued support as arrangements are finalised for Racing NT to assume responsibility for both greyhound and thoroughbred racing.
"In our year of growth, certainty and security, we are delivering the reforms needed to ensure racing remains a strong - and growing - contributor to the Territory economy and our unique lifestyle."
