The Boards of Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and Aushorse Marketing are delighted to announce Tom Reilly, currently the editor of the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper, will become Chief Executive Officer of both organisations.
As well as being a leader in the media industry, Mr Reilly has a deep understanding of Australian politics and business, which will enable him to advocate strongly on behalf of breeders.
Mr Reilly has had a lifelong passion for racing and breeding. After finishing university he spent three years working for trainers Luca Cumani and Mick Channon in the UK, Coolmore Stud in Kentucky and Christophe Clement in New York. He has also owned shares in horses both here and in the UK.
TBA chairman Basil Nolan welcomed the appointment.
“I am thrilled that someone of Tom’s ability with an understanding and passion for the racing industry from an early age has accepted the role of CEO TBA/Aushorse,” said Mr Nolan. “I feel that Tom has the capacity to deliver a sound outcome for all breeders of Thoroughbreds in this very competitive environment.”
Aushorse Chairman Antony Thompson said; “We received a large number of outstanding candidates and we are delighted to be able to secure Tom as CEO. He has practical horse experience and knows the overseas markets and industry participants. I am sure he will quickly grasp the industry issues and complexities whilst working with all stakeholders for the benefit of both organisations.”
Mr Reilly, who was born in London, first came to Australia in 2007 for the Melbourne Cup. Within two months he had moved here permanently.
After starting as a reporter on the Sunday Age in Melbourne, he moved to the Herald in Sydney where he held a number of senior positions before, aged 35, he was made one of the youngest editors of the daily paper in its history.
“It’s a tremendous honour to become chief executive of TBA and Aushorse and I’m looking forward to starting in the role,” said Mr Reilly.
“The Australian breeding industry is recognised as a global leader and I’m keen to continue to develop the Aushorse brand overseas and further increase international investment in our bloodstock whilst ensuring we continue to support and cultivate domestic ownership and Australia’s love and passion for the Thoroughbred.”
“I hope to provide a strong voice on behalf of the breeding industry, both with other stakeholder groups and governments at all levels.”
Mr Reilly will commence the role in mid September.
TBA is the peak body of the six state breeding associations, representing more than 3,700 breeders and industry participants. Aushorse Marketing is a non-profit organisation founded with the aim of promoting the Australian Thoroughbred both domestically and overseas and increasing sales.
For further information contact:
TBA President – Basil Nolan 0407 140 711
Aushorse Chairman – Antony Thompson 02 6549 9999