THE Canberra Racing Club has elected Liz Clarke as chair, making her the first woman to serve in the role.

Liz was first elected to the committee in 2020, and served as vice chair in the last year.

“I am honoured to be appointed chair, particularly as the first woman to hold the positon,” says Liz.

“This is a critical time for the club, and I look forward to leading the committee and working closely with chief executive Darren Pearce as we pursue our masterplan for Thoroughbred Park.

“I retired from the ACT public service in 2021 after an extensive management career where I headed the government’s major venues portfolio, including Exhibition Park, GIO Stadium, and Manuka Oval, and the government’s property portfolio.

“The club’s relationship with government will be extremely important as we move into our redevelopment phase and I think I am well placed to build on that relationship.

“My focus since joining the committee has been on government relations, governance, business strategy, risk management, and stakeholder engagement, all critical to the club’s success.”

Liz takes over from Les Boag, who will remain on the committee and will serve as vice chair.