GCA CEO David Simonette has been appointed a new Director of RWWA.
Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) is pleased to announce the appointment of two new directors to the Board.
RWWA Chair Jeff Ovens welcomed the appointment of directors David Simonette and Colin Holt, who start their new roles on August 1 following nomination by the greyhound and thoroughbred codes of racing.
“Both David and Colin bring new skills to the Board which will add to the capability of the Board to meet future challenges,” Jeff said.
“David has been interested in greyhound racing since the 1970s and his involvement has covered everything from owner and breeder to broadcaster and administration.
“David is a great ambassador for greyhound racing and has been a valuable contributor to RWWA’s Chase the Dream campaign to promote ownership of greyhounds in WA.”
Colin Holt is a former Member of the Legislative Council representing the South West for The Nationals. He was Western Australia’s Racing and Gaming Minister from December 2014 to August 2016.
“Colin has always been a passionate advocate for the racing sector in Western Australia,” Jeff said.
Jeff also acknowledged the valuable contribution of outgoing Board members Gary Gliddon and Rob Bransby
“Gary and Rob have devoted considerable time and effort to improve racing in the state and deserve our sincere thanks and appreciation,” Jeff said.
“I wish them both well in their future endeavours.”
Since graduation in 1982 Simonette worked in racing and gaming related industries including Burswood Casino, WAGRA and RWWA.
He has been involved with Greyhound racing in a number of capacities including owner, trainer, breeder, WAGRA board member, WAGRA employee, writer, broadcaster and presenter of 6PR, RR 1206, Sky Channel, Channel 7, Access 31, various publications etc.
Retired as CEO of WAGRA in 2013 due to ill health after 10 years’ service at both RWWA and WAGRA including earlier positions in media/industry communications and operations manager roles respectively.
David’s interest in greyhound racing spans back to 1974 co-inciding with the commencement of greyhound racing at Cannington in December of that year. He has enthusiastically followed the industry, first hand, since that date and has a good understanding of the industry both now and yesteryear. He has seen all the great greyhounds in the 30 year plus history of our sport and had dealings with many of its main players and characters.
Since becoming GCA CEO Simonette has performed in an outstanding manor for the Association. He has established many partnerships and put in place solid foundations with member bodies and participants of the sport. He has lifted the profile of GCA in a manner most beneficial to the organisation.