Gates first past post for board role

GOLD Coast Deputy Mayor Donna Gates fondly recalls her grandfather’s horse Woolstar winning the Adelaide Cup in 1963 as one of her earliest childhood memories.

And it is a lifetime love of racing that she hopes to bring to her new role on the Gold Coast Turf Club board.

Gates has replaced Heydon Harvey who stood down this month following five years on the board.

“I’ve got big shoes to fill, but I know that the Gold Coast Turf Club and the entire equine/entertainment precinct has a massive future in our city,” Gates said.

“The club is enjoying a period of strong and stable leadership under the guidance of (chairman) Brett Cook and I’m looking forward to being part of the team.”

Gates says Woolstar’s win inspired her love of racing.

“The excitement I recall still makes me smile,” she said.

“My father nominated me for membership of the VRC (Victoria Racing Club), Moonee Valley and the then VATC (Melbourne Racing Club) at a very early age and as soon as possible I was a regular racegoer. Despite many visits to those tracks, the Gold Coast Turf Club is a standout. I’ve been a member since 2003.”