GRSA CEO departs amid greyhound industry transformation
Greyhound Racing South Australia (GRSA) chief executive Bodelle Francis has become the first casualty of the need for reform in the state's greyhound racing industry.
Francis on Tuesday announced she was stepping down from the role to take up a post with Oakbank Racing Club, although she had informed the GRSA board of her intentions prior to the release of the government's independent Ashton inquiry report.
Francis was in the role for just short of 20 months following the departure of long-term CEO Matt Corby.
She was appointed by the Board of GRSA following an extensive search, having held the roles of acting CEO and chair at the South Australian Jockey Club (SAJC), as well as other directorship roles within the organisation over a 10-year period.
Francis commenced her role as CEO on April 27, 2022.
On Thursday, December 14, 2023, the Ashton independent inquiry into SA greyhound racing cited the need for a major overhaul in the way the sport was run in the state.
The inquiry was launched by the SA Government in response to an outcry after two prominent SA greyhound participants had 12 charges laid against them over animal abuse and welfare concerns in July 2023.
Ashton made 86 recommendations that need to be implemented in the industry within a two-year time frame.
If the required reforms are not successfully implemented, the industry has been put on notice by SA Premier Peter Malinauskas that the code will be banned in the state.
“Greyhound racing in South Australia now has a very clear pathway over the next two years, and I came to the decision that this transformation would best be delivered by someone who can make this their complete focus,” Francis said.
“I am confident that the industry will respond positively and thrive as a result of this inquiry process.”
“I have loved being part of the industry in South Australia and I feel very confident it will respond and ultimately prosper as a result of the inquiry process.”
GRSA chairman Grantley Stevens praised Francis for her contributions throughout her tenure.
He acknowledged her efforts in driving improvements and guiding GRSA through difficult times
“She has driven improvement across our organisation and has helped steer GRSA through some significant challenges,” Stevens said.
“Bodelle has worked incredibly hard, and we completely understand and respect her decision to focus more on her growing family.
“We're also glad she is not being lost to the racing industry and wish her nothing but success in her new role.”
GRSA director Ben Kavenagh will temporarily step down from his position on the board to serve as interim CEO while a search for a new CEO commences.