A well-respected Sunshine Coast Turf Club employee is stepping into a new role after 23 years of service.
Murray Weeding has been the racecourse and facilities manager at the Coast’s premier horse racing complex since the mid-2000s, but is switching roles to oversee key infrastructure projects and asset management.
Under Mr Weeding’s guidance, the Corbould Park track has been has recognised as one of the best in the world, hosting more than 60 race meetings annually. It has also often been called upon to take on additional races when other South-East Queensland tracks are unavailable.
Throughout his tenure Mr Weeding has overseen major developments such as the installation of track lights for night racing, the creation of two synthetic tracks and the construction of 12 on-course stable barns housing 384 boxes.
“After 23 years and well over 1500 race meetings, I feel it is time for me to step back from the busy racing program and daily trackwork management,” he said.
“The club has been a huge part of my life and I am excited about staying involved in a new role as the club progresses its asset management program and the commencement of the site masterplan.
“I am incredibly appreciative of the support I’ve received from the SCTC board, staff and also from my wife Liz and family over the years.”
SCTC chief executive John Miller paid tribute to Mr Weeding’s contribution to the Coast’s racing industry.
“Murray is one of the most loyal, genuine, hard-working individuals you can meet, and he leaves an outstanding legacy for the track staff moving forward,” Mr Miller said.
“He should be very proud of his achievements. It is a fantastic result for the club that he will stay on and remain a part of our team.”
Current track foreman Scott Mackinnon, who began with SCTC in 2017 as an apprentice, has been appointed as the new racecourse manager.
Long-time staff member Colin Dunn will take on a more senior role as the tracks and machinery manager.
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