EXCLUSIVE: Melbourne Racing Club chairman John Kanga has sensationally resigned on the eve of the Caulfield Cup carnival.
This masthead has confirmed Melbourne businessman Kanga, who went from relative anonymity 12 months ago to one of Australian racing’s most popular administrator, resigned on Friday.
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However, “a series of public attacks directly at me personally”, fuelled by disgruntled former MRC employees and board members, ultimately triggered the Kanga decision to resign.
A source close to MRC, but not authorised to speak publicly, defended the outgoing chairman.
“Enough pot shots at Kanga and salacious rumours, which are unfounded and unsubstantiated,” the source told this masthead.
The MRC board elected vice-chair Cameron Fisher to the top job after a secret meeting on Friday.
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The club confirmed the leadership change, effectively immediately.
“In recent weeks there has been a series of public attacks directed at me personally,” Kanga said.
“While I completely reject the nature and accuracy of those attacks, I do not want them to distract from the club, its members, or the excitement of the Caulfield Cup carnival.
“My decision to step aside is about putting the interests of the club and the broader racing industry ahead of my own.
“The MRC is bigger than any one individual, and I want to ensure the focus remains where it belongs – on racing, our members, staff, and delivering a world-class spring carnival.”
John Kanga has resigned as MRC chairman. Picture: Jason Edwards
The MRC is one of the richest sporting organisations in Australia with an extensive portfolio including property – Sandown Racecourse – and wagering assets.
The MRC operates Caulfield, Sandown and Mornington racecourse.
Kanga won a bitter board battle last year, initially with an unsuccessful special general meeting, to claim the chairman position.
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The emergence led to rapid board reshuffle, which ultimately secured the future of Sandown, as the new committee railed against its potential rezoning for housing redevelopment.
The Kanga ticket also reinstated the original mounting yard at Caulfield, and halted an “unnecessary” proposed $250m grandstand redevelopment.
“It has been a privilege to lead the Melbourne Racing Club and to work alongside so many dedicated people who care deeply about racing,” Kanga said.
“The club is in a strong position for the future, with outstanding leadership and a talented team across all levels.
“I wish the committee, our members, and our staff every success in the years ahead.”
John Kanga and wife Stephanie at the Melbourne Autumn Ball in May. Picture: David Crosling
Kanga’s departure is the latest in a series of MRC exits.
Kanga’s board terminated former MRC chief executive Tom Reilly in June.
Reilly, an ex-Sydney Morning Herald journalist, arrived at the MRC after a decade as chief executive of Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and its Aushorse marketing arm.
Media has peppered away at the former chairman in recent weeks, including revelations a club probe confirmed a block of 24 memberships linked to Kanga’s family and friends were bought with his credit card before the 2024 board spill.
The MRC committee accepted Kanga’s resignation and confirmed the appointment of Fisher.
Kanga at the Caulfield Guineas barrier draw earlier this week. Picture: Getty Images
Acting MRC chief executive Tanya Fullarton said Kanga’s decision reflected his “deep respect for the club and its members”.
“We thank him for his service and wish him all the very best for the future,” Fullarton said.
Kanga faced the Caulfield Cup carnival media event on Wednesday, but was a notable absentee at the official launch soiree at Caulfield on Thursday night.
RV issued a statement on Friday.
“We note Mr Kanga’s decision to resign as MRC chairman and the committee’s subsequent decision to appoint Cameron Fisher as his replacement,” RV spokesperson said.
“We have not been briefed by Mr Kanga on his reasons but note his comments within the MRC’s statement.
“This development won’t have an impact on the delivery of the Caulfield Cup carnival. The MRC will put on three exceptional days of racing and entertainment over the next week.”