MRC Committee Returned Unopposed

Media Release - Tuesday September 9

The Melbourne Racing Club (MRC) has confirmed the results of the 2025 nominations for the MRC Executive Committee and the Mornington Advisory Group (MAG), which will be formally ratified at the Club’s Annual General Meeting on 25 September.

For the MRC Executive Committee, three existing members John Kanga, Alison Saville and Frank Pollio re-nominated and where duly re-appointed. As no further nominations were received, no ballot was required.

John Kanga pictured with Gai Waterhouse.

For the Mornington Advisory Group, four positions were up for election. The confirmed nominees being Stephen Foster (re-appointed), Stephen Conley (re-appointed), David Gambell (new) and Sally Jarvis (new).

MRC Chairman John Kanga congratulated the re-elected and newly appointed members, saying the outcome reflected the strength of the Club’s leadership.

“I congratulate my colleagues Alison Saville and Frank Pollio on joining me in re-election to the Executive Committee. 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,” Mr Kanga said.

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“At the same time, I warmly welcome new MAG members David Gambell and Sally Jarvis alongside the re-appointment of Stephen Foster and Stephen Conley. Their combined skills, insights and passion for racing will help strengthen our engagement with members and the community, particularly in Mornington.”

Mr Kanga said that the MRC Committee had delivered on a number of important policy changes for the benefit of members and the racing industry.

“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. We have also negotiated a $195 million sale of excess land to eliminate debt and re-invest in racing, while introducing more affordable food, beverage, admission pricing and memberships, and prioritising participants and owners,” Mr Kanga said.

“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.”

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