Implications of Messara report concern club

THE future of the Wingatui racecourse was debated at length during the Otago Racing Club’s annual meeting last night.

There was concern among members about recommendations in the Governmentcommissioned Messara report on the future of thoroughbred racing.

The Messara report recommended the Racing Act and other relevant legislation be amended so that club land and assets can be transferred to the ownership of New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR).

Messara, an Australian racing administrator, called for the number of tracks nationally to be cut from 48 to 28 and those remaining upgraded.

Unlike some southern courses, Wingatui is not tagged for closure. However, there was concern the Otago Racing Club could lose control of the track.

Members resolved to monitor the issue closely and possibly form a committee to address it.

The club posted a net deficit of $78,231 at its annual meeting last night.

The result comes on the back of the massive $688,851 net surplus it posted the preceeding year when its bottom line was boosted by land sales.

The club was in a solid financial position, outgoing president Stephen Grant said.

‘‘I am reasonably hopeful we are moving towards a position where we have a profit after depreciation,’’ he said.

‘‘That will come through increasing our revenue, but also keeping a tight control over our expenses.’’

The upgrade of the Wingatui course played a part in the club posting a deficit. It invested in a memorial lane and significantly upgraded its Gladstone Rd entrance.

Grant’s term as president ended last night and Ray Kean was elected to take his place.

‘‘We are here for the same reason — for the good of the club — and I look forward to working with you all,’’ Kean said.

One of Kean’s first orders of business was to honour Grant with life membership.

There was another significant change in the ranks. After making a highly valued and lengthy contribution to the Otago Racing Club, White Robe Lodge owner, trainer and breeder Brian Anderton stood down from the club’s committee.