Thoroughbred Breeders Victoria (TBV) is pleased to announce the appointment of Yulong Investment Australia's Chief Operating Officer Sam Fairgray, to the TBV Board.
Sam replaces Matthew Tillett, who has stepped down from the Board after three years of service. TBV is grateful for his support and thanks him for his time and efforts during his time as a Board Member.
A long-term supporter of TBV, Sam Fairgray is the Chief Operating Officer of Mr Yuesheng Zhang's Australian arm of Yulong Investments since January 2018. Prior to this position, Sam was General Manager at Woodside Park Stud. He also was the General Manager at Newgate for 2 years and was at Arrowfield Stud for 14 years as their Operations Manager.
Sam was instrumental in success of the careers of stallions such as Redoute's Choice, Snitzel and Not a Single Doubt. Sam lists Miss Finland, winning the Golden Slipper under the Arrowfield banner, as one of his career highlights.
Sam is passionate about encouraging young people to join the industry and showcasing the great industry we have on offer. Sam is also passionate about the betterment of the industry, which he hopes he can impart any knowledge he has to other Victorian breeders.
Since Yulong's inception in Victoria in 2014, Yulong continues to prove their commitment to the Victorian breeding and racing industry. As well as Yulong Park in Bayles, two additional properties were purchased in 2018 – Yulong Stud (Limerick Lane) and Yulong Farm (Hillside), both in the Nagambie region – with the vision to become state-of-the-art stallion and broodmare properties. Yulong continues to increase their quality broodmare band and has recently acquired stallion, Grunt to offer to Victorian breeders.
As well as Yulong having a strong presence in the breeding industry, their racing arm of the business is quite strong with around 200 race horses worldwide. Recent successes have included three stakes winning 2YO fillies, who have won for Yulong being Catch Me, Cheer Leader, Koo Wee Rup.
James O'Brien – TBV President, is excited about the appointment of Sam and has no doubt that he will bring new thoughts and ideas to breeding in Victoria.
"While it is a loss to see Matt step down, in order to pursue opportunities within the racing industry, I would like to thank Matt for his hard work and dedication. In saying that, I am excited for Sam to join us on the Board, where there is no doubt his experience, passion and skill set will help drive breeding in Victoria to new heights."
Sam will begin his role on the Board effective 1 June 2019.
For more information, please contact Ms Charmein Bukovec, TBV Chief Executive via email:tbv@racingvictoria.net.au