Cover image courtesy of The Image Is Everything
Current Victoria Racing Club Chair Neil Wilson announced his retirement with the club electing board member Vin Cox as his replacement, effective December 15. Wilson has spent 14 years on the board and has been the Chair since 2020. He is the only person in the club’s 186 year history to have worked as both CEO and Chair.
Cox will become the 23th Chair of the VRC Board in the club’s long history.
“It has been a privilege to serve the Victoria Racing Club for the past 14 years, including as CEO and Chairman over the past decade. I am incredibly thankful to have had the opportunity to work alongside VRC Chairmen, VRC Board Directors, CEOs, and the many talented and committed people across the VRC,” Wilson said.
Neil Wilson | Image courtesy of Victoria Racing Club
The VRC’s CEO Kylie Rogers spoke to Wilson’s achievements in his time on the Board.
“On behalf of everyone at the VRC, I want to thank Neil for his leadership, friendship, and the important role he played during a key time in the Club’s history,” Rogers said.
“On behalf of everyone at the VRC, I want to thank Neil for his leadership, friendship, and the important role he played during a key time in the Club’s history.” - Kylie Rogers
“Neil's contribution to the VRC extends far beyond any one achievement. He has played an important role in strengthening the Club's racing product, including supporting the expansion of Group 1 racing on TAB Champions Stakes Day, driving continued investment in Flemington and the Melbourne Cup Carnival, expanding the VRC's media reach and building strong international partnerships through initiatives that drive our global brand and relevance.”
Cox brings a plenitude of experience
Cox was appointed to the VRC Board in June 2020, and currently is a member of the VRC Racing Sub-Committee and chairs the Masterplan Committee overseeing Flemington’s assets. Outside of the VRC, Cox has held high level industry positions including former general manager of Yulong and managing director of both Godolphin Australia and Magic Millions.
“I’m deeply honoured to be appointed Chairman of the Victoria Racing Club,” Cox said.
“As a member of the Club for more than 30 years, this is a responsibility that I don’t take lightly.” - Vin Cox
“As a member of the Club for more than 30 years, this is a responsibility that I don’t take lightly, and it is a privilege to help lead an organisation that means so much to so many people.
“Neil leaves an extraordinary legacy. His leadership has helped guide the Club and now position it for long-term success. I thank him for his commitment and contribution over 14 years of service to the VRC.”
Vin Cox | Image courtesy of Inglis
Wilson will stay as Chair until the club’s AGM and will work to effect a strong handover.
“Congratulations to Vin Cox on becoming the 23rd VRC Chairman. I have every confidence that, under his leadership and with the support of the VRC Board, CEO Kylie Rogers, and the VRC team the VRC will continue its positive momentum well into the future,” Wilson said.
Members are the core of the VRC
Membership of the VRC has grown to more than 36,000 people, a club record and is the world's largest members' racing club.
“Our members will remain at the heart of everything we do. They are the reason we exist, and my focus will be on ensuring the VRC continues to deliver world-class racing, exceptional experiences and ongoing investment in the facilities and precinct that make Flemington so special,” Cox said.
“Our members will remain at the heart of everything we do. They are the reason we exist.” - Vin Cox
“I look forward to working with the Board, CEO Kylie Rogers, our members, partners, and stakeholders to build on the Club's strong foundations. We have an exciting future ahead.”
Kylie Rogers | Image courtesy of Victoria Racing Club
Wilson will remain on as a member and is looking forward to seeing the club’s future under the guidance of Cox.
“I will be forever grateful to those at the VRC who have supported me and had the conviction to believe in our direction at times when it mattered most. This is a very special organisation, and it is important to preserve the VRC’s unique blend of history and tradition while embracing opportunity and progress,” Wilson said.
“While my role with the Club will come to an end, I will always be a proud VRC member. My passion for the VRC, the Melbourne Cup Carnival, and everything the Club represents will remain unchanged. I look forward to seeing the Club continue to thrive and build on its proud legacy for generations to come.”
Cox’s former employer Magic Millions extended their congratulations to Cox and spoke of Wilson’s leadership in times of crisis.
"Vin has always understood that the strength of Australian racing relies on collaboration beyond state borders and sector groups. His appointment to the VRC is a wonderful outcome not just for Victoria, but for the entire Australian thoroughbred industry,” said Magic Millions owners Gerry Harvey and Katie Page in a statement.
“His (Vin Cox) appointment to the VRC is a wonderful outcome not just for Victoria, but for the entire Australian thoroughbred industry.” - Gerry Harvey and Katie Page
“When racing and breeding pull together in our shared national interest, there is no limit to what can be achieved. We have seen firsthand Vin's capability, integrity, and passion for the thoroughbred and racing, and we look forward to seeing his leadership guide the VRC into an exciting new era.
Katie Page and Gerry Harvey | Image courtesy of Magic Millions
“In January 2025, Magic Millions lost both its marquee racedays - within days of each other, in the most difficult circumstances. In our time of crisis, it was Neil Wilson who was first on the phone to us asking how he can help. It is in those times that you witness character and leadership in the truest sense of the words. Neil thank you - your time as Chair comes to an end, but our friendship and respect endures.”
