Richard Beasley SC has been appointed as the Principal Member of the Racing NSW Appeal Panel.

Racing NSW chief executive Peter V’landys announced his appointment.

“The Racing NSW Appeal Panel is a critical component of the regulation of thoroughbred racing in NSW, being the first avenue of appeal from decisions of the Racing NSW stewards,” Mr V’Landys said.

“Racing NSW has been very fortunate to have extremely distinguished lawyers sit as Principal Member of the Appeal Panel including the Honourable Justice Peter Hely QC, Mr Tom Hughes QC and Mr Peter Capelin QC, Mr John Hiatt OAM and, most recently, Mr Ross Clugston.

“The current Principal Member, Mr Ross Clugston, whose term expires on Monday 27 June 2016, has informed Racing NSW that he does not wish to be reappointed as Principal Member for a further term although he will continue to sit as a member of the Appeal Panel.

“Accordingly, Racing NSW has great pleasure in announcing the appointment of Mr Richard Beasley SC as Principal Member, commencing from 27 June 2016.

“Mr Beasley is a highly respected Senior Counsel and has been a member of the Appeal Panel since 2011.

“During that time, Mr Beasley has sat on a number of significant appeals and demonstrated a thorough understanding of our industry.

“His appointment by the NSW Government as Commissioner conducting the Auburn City Council Public Inquiry is a further recognition of his expertise in administrative matters.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Clugston for his outstanding contribution as Principal Member over the last three years.

“Pleasingly, Mr Clugston’s valued commitment to the regulation of thoroughbred racing in NSW will continue with him sitting as a member of the Appeal Panel.”