Industry Release - Harness Racing SA CEO To Depart

HARNESS RACING SA CEO TO DEPART

Harness Racing South Australia (HRSA) today announces that Chief Executive Officer Dean Elliott will depart the organisation at the end of May, moving back to his home state of Victoria to take up the role of Head of Industry & Commercial – AU with Entain (Ladbrokes & Neds).

Appointed to HRSA in October 2021, Dean has overseen a period of significant change and renewal within South Australian harness racing, including a revitalised approach focused on engagement, partnerships, and governance, along with the introduction of several key strategies and initiatives to optimize HRSA’s funding model. This led to a rejuvenation across many segments of the industry in SA which saw prizemoney levels rise 33% last financial year along with significant growth in horse population and market share.

HRSA Chairman Dr Carlo D’Ortenzio reflects “Dean’s leadership has brought energy, vision, and collaboration to HRSA at a time when it was greatly needed. He leaves behind a legacy of transparency, structure, and strategic ambition that will serve the industry well into the future. While we’re sad to see him go, we are proud that South Australia has produced a leader now contributing nationally to the sport’s future.”

“It’s been an absolute privilege to lead HRSA during a period of rebuilding and reimagining. The Board’s leadership, along with the support of our staff, clubs, participants, and the wider harness racing community, has been truly meaningful. South Australian harness racing is uniquely passionate and resilient, and I leave knowing the foundations are in place for continued progress into a new era. I’m excited to take this next step, where I’ll remain involved in racing at a national level” says Elliott.

HRSA will shortly commence a recruitment process for a new CEO, with transitional arrangements to be announced in due course.