The Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association is excited to add the experience and knowledge of Paul Knight to the TBQA Committee.
Mr Knight's appointment was announced at the TBQA AGM, at Doomben on Saturday.
Paul Knight has a career within the thoroughbred industry that extends over 30 years, with the majority of it at Magic Millions in varying positions including Bloodstock Manager and Operations Manager. In 2016 Paul was offered the opportunity to join Aquis Farm as their Business Development Manager, and was an integral part of their rapid growth and development – from standing four stallions in their first season of 2016 to eight stallions in 2018.
"We're thrilled to have Paul on the TBQA," said TBQA President, Basil Nolan.
"He brings a wealth of experience to the table from a different side of the industry and I have no doubt he will be a valuable contributor to the committee and for our members."
Paul said his time with Magic Millions has provided him with significant experience contributing to a solid foundation within the industry and a deeper connection to the people within it.
"It is a different world being in the
breeding industry to working in the Sales arena, and it has given me a superior
understanding of what Breeders go through to get their product to the market,"
said Paul.
Paul was active in implementing Aquis Farm's Breeder Bonus Schemes which are
aimed directly towards all Breeders, as well Aquis Farm supporting Breeders in
buying stock by their stallions in the sales arenas.
Paul shares the same sentiment as all those on the Committee and wants to make
a difference.
"I am honoured to represent the Queensland breeders and be part of this committee.
"My goal is to always support and lift up our breeding industry and make it stronger; a stronger breeding industry means more vibrant racing encouraging more investment into breeding," said Paul.
"It is a self-perpetuating cycle that
benefits everyone involved.
"Queenslanders, pound for pound, breed the best horses in Australia and we have
to fight, just like we have in other arenas, to get what rightfully belongs to
us."
Paul is replacing Ray Plant, who stood for one term on the Committee, and resigned at this election due to ill health.
No-one else contested the positions available, therefore President Basil Nolan and committee member, Scott McAlpine were re-elected unopposed.
"I would like to thank Ray for his time on the Committee," said Mr Nolan.
"Although he was only able to provide limited input due to his health, the contribution that he made was always worthwhile and significant and we thank Ray for doing his utmost for the TBQA in what has been a difficult time for him.
"The Committee extends their best wishes
to Ray, we hope he has a speedy recovery and a bright future."
Following the AGM the TBQA once again supported the National Jockey's Trust luncheon, to raise funds for injured jockeys and their families.
"This is a tremendous cause that the TBQA is proud to support," said TBQA President, Basil Nolan.
"The racing industry always rallies in times of need, and it's terrific to know that the NJT is there to support our riders, and their families if they're placed in those unfortunate circumstances."