Chief Steward To Depart For New Role Abroad

THE Greyhound, Welfare & Integrity Commission (GWIC) is on the hunt for a new Chief Steward following news that Troy Vassallo is heading abroad to take up a role with the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC).

Vassallo, who has been the Chief Steward of NSW greyhound racing since May 2023, has been appointed to the position of Stipendiary Steward for the HKJC.

It will mark a return to thoroughbred racing for Vassallo, who before his time in greyhound racing, served as a Steward for Racing NSW from 2016.

In announcing Vassallo's departure, GWIC Chief Operating Officer Wade Birch thanked the outgoing Chief Steward for his valuable contribution to the organisation.

“Troy has made an outstanding contribution to not only GWIC but the sport in general,” Birch said.

“He's built strong relationships between the stewards' team and participants and led by example with cooperation over confrontation.

“We wish him well in his new job in Hong Kong which is considered the best jurisdiction in the world when it comes to racing.

“He won't be easy to replace.”

Vassallo will assume his new post with the Hong Kong Jockey Club at the commencement of the 2024/25 racing season. 

He replaces the outgoing Gerard Bush who will leave the Club at the conclusion of the current racing season to take up a role with Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA).