A MAN instrumental in the rising success of the Cranbourne Turf Club has stepped down from the top job.
Robin Daley announced that he would resign from his role as chairman of the racing club this month – a position he has held for the past 15 years.
Geoff Whiffin was elected as the club’s new chairman at the annual general meeting on 23 November.
Mr Daley remains on the Cranbourne Turf Club committee, saying there was still more developments he would like to see at the club before he threw in the reins completely.
“After 15 years as chairman, I felt that it was the right time to step down,” he said.
“I felt we have achieved a lot of my goals and I thought it was time for a younger generation to take over the executive positions.
“I’ve still got a lot of interest in the club, and I will be thriving for a number of achievements while still serving on the committee.”
Mr Daley was elected to the turf club committee on 25 October 1983, later becoming chairman.
Mr Daley said there had been a number of highlights for him during his time as chairman.
“When I took over the chairmanship there were eight racing meetings conducted a year at Cranbourne,” he said.
“We are now having about 25, and it’s certainly proved beneficial to be having all those meetings.
“The latest achievement I’m happy about is the introduction of night racing into the program.
“I wanted to see the club supported by an alternative source of income, so it was great to get the Trios development up and running.
“I pushed for that. It provides additional income for all codes to surviving in their racing programs.”
Mr Daley said there were still things the club wanted to achieve including on-course stabling at the training complex, improvements to the second storey of the club’s grandstand and turning the old Cranbourne swimming pool site into a veterinary establishment.
Mr Daley said he had thoroughling enjoyed his time as chairman.
“The enjoyment I’ve had is meeting so many generous people in the country racing circles right around the state and interstate,” he said.
“I’ve made a lot of friends and hope to continue those friendships.
“I certainly believe we’ve got young and dedicated staff and committee who are enthusiastic for out club to be regarded as one of the best country racing clubs in the state.
“I’m proud to be associated with such a great team.”
Cranbourne Turf Club chief executive Neil Bainbridge said in addition to Mr Daley’s outstanding service on the Cranbourne Turf Club committee, he had also been very active on the Cranbourne Recreation Reserve committee and was also a founding member of the Trios board.
“Robin’s commitment to the Cranbourne Turf Club and recreations reserve will probably never be equalled again,” he said.
“Robin has guided the club extremely well and oversaw significant changes including the recent introduction of night racing in March 2012, a long term goal of the club.
“The Cranbourne Turf Club is today regarded as a leader in the Victorian Racing Industry, being home the Cranbourne Training Complex and the industry’s second night racing venue.
“The club now conducts over 24 race meetings per year and about 800 horses are trained daily at the racing centre.
“Robin Daley’s contribution to the Victorian and Cranbourne racing industry cannot be underestimated and he stands down from the role as chairman after 15 years leaving behind a great legacy.”
