HAWKESBURY RACE CLUB ANNOUNCES NEW CEO

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Hawkesbury Race Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Lea Porteous as its new CEO, effective July 18, 2026.

Lea brings more than 23 years of dedicated service to Hawkesbury Race Club.  She has most recently served as Chief Operating Officer where has been responsible for finance, operations, racing administration, hospitality, and commercial activities including the Hawkesbury Race Club Motel.

Lea will succeed current CEO James Heddo after his recent decision to step back from full time employment and return to the Central Coast.

“I am pleased to announce Lea’s appointment as the Club’s new CEO and am looking forward to continuing to work with her as she puts her own stamp on the next phase of the Club’s growth and development," Jo Moore, Hawkesbury Race Club Administrator said.

"She will be a familiar and trusted face for not only our staff but for all the Club’s, members, sponsors, trainers and industry participants.”

Current CEO James Heddo said he welcomed Lea’s appointment and wanted to acknowledge her work with himself and Jo Moore on the Club’s current strategic plan and vision for the future of the Club.

 "I am proud of what we have achieved together during my tenure and I look forward to supporting the transition and cheering on Lea and the Club’s future success,” he said.

Porteous said it was an incredible privilege to be appointed CEO of Hawkesbury Race Club.

"Having spent more than two decades at the Club, I am proud of the Club’s history and its impact in the racing industry and the local Hawkesbury community," she said.

"I would like to sincerely thank HRC Administrator Jo Moore and Racing NSW for the confidence they have placed in me and acknowledge James Heddo's contribution as well as his guidance and mentorship. 

I am excited about the future of the Club and look forward to partnering with our staff, members and all stakeholders to continue to deliver exceptional racing and community experiences.”

STORY & PIC SUPPLIED - JULY 1, 2026