Dr leaves the turf

By Bridget Cook
A CRANBOURNE Turf Club committee member has passed on the reins, announcing his retirement this week.
Doctor Sam Birman will step down from the committee after almost 40 years’ service to the local racing community.
Dr Birman became involved with the Turf Club in 1970 when he became the regular medical officer, as he had the only doctor’s practice in Cranbourne.
Two years later he was asked to join the committee, which he did, and has been on it ever since.
He also remained the head medical officer up until 2009. Between 1989 and 1994, he held the position of vice-chairman.
At the City of Casey Tricodes Day, the committee made a special presentation to Dr Birman and thanked him for his ongoing contribution and service.
This was not the first time he had been recognised for his efforts, having been made a Life Member in 2005.
Dr Birman said he had had a great time being involved with the turf club committee.
“I made some great friends on the committee and in Cranbourne, and while I’m no longer on the committee, I will certainly continue to be involved,” he said.
Dr Birman said he had watched the Cranbourne Racing Centre develop into a premier racing facility since he started.
“It has truly taken huge strides,” he said.
“When I first started we had nine race meetings a year. We now host 22 meetings and are set to hold night race meetings soon.
“One of the big highlights during my time was the development of the training complex.
“It has really put Cranbourne Racing Centre at the forefront of training in Victoria or even in Australia.”
Dr Birman’s son Paul still remains on the committee.
He said stepping down was a difficult decision, but something he needed to do.
“I now live and have my doctor practice in the city,” he said. “It’s very hard to get to the committee meetings.
“I also decided it was time for someone local and younger, with more time and energy, to become involved.
“It has been a great pleasure being involved with the committee.”
Cranbourne Turf Clubchief executive Neil Bainbridge congratulated Dr Birman on an outstanding career and hiscontribution to racing inthe area.
“He will certainly be missed on the committee,” he said. “We wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”