Mr Pearson (56 years of age) is a Director of Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) the control body that operates both the TAB and the WA racing industry. He has been a director of ARBL since 2004. Professionally his business career has been concentrated in the Oil industry particularly the logistical and marketing of lubricants in WA. He is currently Executive Chairman of Statewide Oil Distributors which was awarded the second generation Western Australian Family Business Award as part of the national awards programme yesterday. His son Todd, an Olympic swimming gold medallist in Sydney, acts as its Chief Executive.

Previous positions held include President East Perth Football Club (1990-1992), Committee Western Australian Turf Club (1992-1994), Betting Control Board (1993-1994) and Board member WA Swimming Association (2000-2002).

Outgoing ARB Ltd Chairman Andrew Ramsden said that the Board had done very well in selecting its next Chairman.

“Bob Pearson has strong experience as a racing administrator combined with a successful commercial background. It is the right mix and I know that he will do an excellent job.”

Mr Pearson said that he was honoured to take on the role and would tackle the job with dedication and passion.

“For almost two centuries racing has been one of only a handful of Australia’s truly national sports and I am extremely proud to take on this role. Unquestionably these are challenging times for the industry, but the fundamentals are strong and Australian racing will thrive. If I look at my own State of Western Australia, attendances are up, turnover has grown greater than 8% per annum over the three years and prizemoney has been boosted significantly. There is no reason why we cannot strive to achieve this across the board.”

Mr Pearson made special acknowledgement of the contribution of the former Chairman Mr Ramsden.

“Andrew has given excellent service to the Australian racing industry and made a truly lasting contribution, so I am particularly pleased that it is him who is passing the reins to me when he retires.”