News
2 January, 2025
Changes to MGRA Board
The Melbourne Greyhound Racing Association (MGRA) wishes to advise of the following changes to the make-up of the MGRA Board.
Current Directors Len Ketelaar and Mark Dooley have resigned from their positions, whilst Mark Kennedy has been appointed to one of the two vacancies. These changes are effective immediately.
Len Ketelaar retires from the Board after over 27 years of service to the Club over two different stints starting in 1990. Len, a multiple Group 1 winning greyhound trainer, was awarded Life Membership of the MGRA for his outstanding contribution to the Club spanning four decades.
A strong advocate for participants, Len has been pivotal in shaping the Meadows racing calendar over the years, focusing on elite level greyhound racing. He has also encouraged investment in the Clubs facilities to maintain its stature as one of the best greyhound racing facilities in the world.
Mark Dooley has served on the Board since September 2022 and been a valuable contributor to a number of important commercial matters for the Club over the past two years. Mark has recently relocated to Queensland with his young family to start a new role with his employer.
MGRA Chair Dr. Barb Backhoy thanked the outgoing Board members for their contribution to the Club.
“Both Len and Mark have been valuable contributors to the MGRA Board, in particular Len, who has dedicated a significant period in a volunteer capacity to ensure The Meadows is recognised as a world leader.”
Filling one of the vacancies on the MGRA Board is Mark Kennedy. Mark has an impressive background in sports integrity and law enforcement, currently working for the Australian Federal Police. Previously he has served as the Mayor of Moonee Valley Council. Mark also has an interest in greyhound racing as an owner and regularly frequents The Meadows.
“Mark Kennedy has a passion for greyhound racing and a strong background in strategy, public policy and law enforcement. I am confident he will be of great value to the MGRA Board” Dr. Backhoy added.
The remaining position on the Board will remain vacant for the immediate short term.