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Australian Turf Club has announced Chief Executive Officer, Matt Galanos had departed his role and the Board thanked Mr Galanos for his long service and commitment to the Club, including as both Chief Financial Officer and CEO and wishes him well for the future.

The Board has appointed Steve McMahon as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective 15 September 2025, while it commences a formal process to appoint a permanent CEO in due course. The Club will make no further comment on individual employment matters.

Mr McMahon has been part of the ATC team for nearly a decade, working across most areas of the Club, and prior to that served as CEO of the NSW Trainers Association for almost five years. His deep knowledge of racing, strong relationships with Members, and passion for horse racing and the industry will help guide the Club during this important period.

Mr Hale acknowledged several of Mr Galanos’ achievements including:

• Contributing to the first sold-out raceday in ATC history
• Overseeing construction of the Winx Stand and multi-deck car park
• Taking out communicable disease insurance for all racedays years in advance of the COVID-19 outbreak
• Leading the business ahead of the Member vote on the proposed sale of Rosehill Gardens, navigating complex Board and industry tensions

ATC Chairman Tim Hale said the Board is determined to place ATC Members and the racing community at the centre of its decision-making

“Our Members and the great sport of Thoroughbred racing are at the heart of the Australian Turf Club. We are committed to building stronger connections, being more transparent, and creating new ways for our Members to help shape the future of their Club,” Mr Hale said.

“I want to thank Matt for his long service to the ATC, first as CFO and then as CEO guiding the Club through some very challenging times. We wish him nothing but the best for the future,” Mr Hale added.

As part of these initiatives, Vice-Chair Caroline Searcy will lead a new Membership Committee to focus on enhancing the Member experience.

Director Annette English will chair a committee to coordinate the ATC and Members’ response to the NSW Government’s Review of the Thoroughbred Racing Act.

The Board is also considering further committees, including ones dedicated to racing, wagering and innovation to ensure all parts of the Club and industry are represented.

“More detail will be shared with Members soon as we embark on a refreshed strategy for the ATC,” Mr Hale said.

“For now, our immediate focus is on delivering a fantastic Spring Carnival that celebrates our horses, our participants and our Members.”