Coast gets new steward

THE man tasked with overseeing the looming enhanced racing climate on the Gold Coast will arrive at the turf club next month.

Paul Gillard has been appointed to lead Gold Coast’s stewarding operations by the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission, making the move from North Queensland.

Gillard, who has more than 25 years experience in stewarding, said he had a lifelong passion for thoroughbred racing.

“I have been involved in racing my whole life, it really is in my blood and this opportunity at the Gold Coast is a further opportunity to hone my craft,” Gillard said.

Racing Integrity Commissioner Ross Barnett said the permanent appointment of such a competent and respected steward reflected the importance of the Gold Coast as a major racing community in the state.

“With the planned upgrade and expansion of the Gold Coast facility, the volume and quality of racing will continue to expand, it’s important the Commission provides a high standard of integrity and consistent application of the rules,” Barnett said.

Gillard said his stints throughout the state including in Brisbane, Rockhampton and Townsville had given him the opportunity to experience thoroughbred racing in the South East, Eastern Downs, Capricornia, Central West, Leichhardt, North West Queensland and in the Far North racing districts.

“I’ve been fortunate to meet and work with many racing clubs and licensees closely, providing me with lasting and treasured memories, which I trust will never be lost,” Gillard said.

“While there is some sadness in leaving my current role as senior steward in North Queensland, where I have built a great rapport with industry participants, I am looking forward to the new and exciting challenge of the Gold Coast.

“Gold Coast racing has gone from strength to strength and the recent Magic Millions carnival was a great example of the calibre of racing that attracts a national and international audience on the Coast and I’ll enjoy being part of that growth.”

The previous long-term Gold Coast head steward Ian Brown resigned last year to take up a position as racing manager with the Gold Coast Turf Club