Racing and Gaming Minister Tony Buti has welcomed Karen Farley SC as the new chair of Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA).
Ms Farley is the first woman to be appointed as chair of the State’s peak body for thoroughbred, harness and greyhound racing in the board’s 20-year history.
In addition to an extensive career in law and academia, Ms Farley has more than 30 years of experience serving on government and non-government boards and committees.
Ms Farley has been appointed for a term of three years starting on August 1, 2022.
She has been on the panel of the Racing Penalties Appeal Tribunal since 1997, and chair since 2018 – a position she will resign before starting on the RWWA board.
As the new board welcomes Ms Farley, it farewells retiring chair Jeff Ovens, who has served as chair of RWWA since 2013 following his appointment to the board in 2012.
Mr Ovens’ tenure has navigated immense industry change, including the transformation of the wagering sector, animal welfare improvements and adapting through the COVID-19 pandemic.
During his tenure, the strong performance of the WATAB and creation of wider revenue streams has ensured a resilient local racing sector.
The RWWA board has eight members who oversee development and integrity of the racing industry in Western Australia.
As stated by Racing and Gaming Minister Tony Buti:
“I extend a warm congratulations to Karen Farley on her appointment as chair at an exciting time for the local racing industry.
“Ms Farley has an impressive wealth of experience and knowledge that will be hugely valuable to the work of the board and industry.
“I also want to express my sincere gratitude to Jeff Ovens, who has made immense contributions during his time on the RWWA board.
“During his tenure, the strong performance of the WATAB and creation of wider revenue streams has led to a robust and successful racing sector in WA.”
