Minister appoints John Doherty to Harness Racing Victoria Board

The Minister for Racing, the Hon Anthony Carbines, has appointed John Doherty to Harness Racing Victoria’s Board, continuing the magistrate’s considerable service to the sport.

Mr Doherty was appointed to a three-year term on the Board, joining recently appointed Chair Bernard Saundry, Deputy Chair Catherine Ainsworth, and members Judy Rothacker and Dennis Bice.

Mr Doherty previously served on the Board from 2001-2009 and continued his involvement in harness racing with service on the HRV Integrity Council (2010-2017) and representation on the RAD Board. He was also a Deputy Chair of the Independent Victorian Racing Tribunal (2017-2022).

“I was humbled that it was thought I could contribute, and I’m ready and willing to take up the challenge again in whatever way I can,” Mr Doherty said.

“I have had a lot to do with rules and regulations and strengthening integrity in harness racing and have since gained a new perspective as an owner and potential breeder.”

Mr Doherty was a full-time Victorian magistrate for 27 years, serving throughout regional and metropolitan Victoria, and continues to sit as a reserve magistrate.

“I appreciate there are challenges and look forward to working with the Board to lift the sport, get people back involved, and show what a great sport it is,” he said.

Mr Saundry said Mr Doherty would be a valuable addition to the Board.

“John has a fantastic reputation built on an extensive legal and harness racing history, having given much to strengthening the integrity of the sport,” Mr Saundry said.

“He will be a terrific addition to the Board over an important, transformative time for the industry.”

by Michael Howard, for Harness Racing Victoria