BRC Pays Tribute to Neville Bell as new Chairman Elected
30 January 2025
The Brisbane Racing Club has today paid tribute to Neville Bell after he stepped down as Chairman and as a Director at the Club’s board meeting.
Richard Morrison was elected as BRC Chairman. His previous role of Vice Chairman has been taken by Terry Svenson.
Mr Bell’s decision to retire ends a 26-year tenure on the board of the BRC and, before it, the Queensland Turf Club. He has served 12 years as chairman. Mr Bell departs with the BRC’s Master Plan well and truly established, diversifying the Club’s interests beyond racing and into the likes of property, retail, commercial property and licensed clubs.
“Neville Bell will be remembered as one of the great chairmen in the rich history of the BRC and our predecessors,” Mr Morrison said. “He has led the BRC through what it is arguably the greatest transformation of any race club in Australia.
“On behalf of all BRC members, I would like to thank Neville for his service and wish him and his wife Mary a very happy retirement. We look forward to seeing them trackside.”
Mr Bell thanked members for their support and acknowledged the changing nature of modern racing.
“I’m grateful for the support of so many good people over the years but, quite simply, the time was right for me to step down,” Mr Bell said.
“I’m thrilled for Richard and Terry. I very much look forward to watching them and their team of Directors and our wonderful staff take the BRC into the future.
“It’s almost head-spinning to think back to 1998 when I joined the board of the QTC. That was before the rise of corporate bookmakers, online betting and social media. How times have changed.
“It’s an exciting time for the BRC with new board leadership, a new CEO, a new General Manager of Property and the continued growth of our Master Plan. The next phase of this 160-year-old business awaits and the future holds much excitement.”
BRC CEO Karl deKroo praised Mr Bell’s contribution to the Club and to the racing industry.
“Neville Bell has been one of the most successful racing administrators in modern times and we’re indebted to his dedication, vision and to the manner in which he has led the BRC for many years,” Mr deKroo said.
“Eagle Farm’s infield stabling complex, which was funded by the BRC, is a world leader and showcases how racing remains at the heart of a transformed Club.”
Mr Morrison has been elected Chairman after more than 12 years as a BRC Director.
With a career in commercial property, agency and development, Mr Morrison brings a strong passion for thoroughbred racing. The father of three and long-time Hendra and Ascot resident is also a significant racehorse owner and hobby breeder.
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