Messara the man to put racing on track

JOHN Messara, the power behind the NSW racing throne, should take over the official role that encompasses the "strong and unencumbered leadership" put forward by NSW Racing Minister Graham West. The new deal is a backdown by West as far as independence is concerned but a move in the right direction. Conflict of interest will get a hearty mention regarding Messara, one of the major breeders and the Aushorse chairman. Messara, though, has been a major playmaker on issues such as the EI epidemic and the World Youth Day debacle. Give him the title and accountability. And there is some light at the end of what has been in many ways a wretched NSW Government period for the industry. On Saturday, West went to the re-opening of Randwick and made a visit to the press room. You've got to admire his style if not his timing. Such an appearance was a first for a minister in the hallowed area. But it was wasted on a race day when horses were back for the first time in three months. Also at Randwick was Ian MacDonald, the NSW Primary Industries Minister. Could this be the first time in decades that state politicians are showing interest in the turf? And is there another change in direction concerning funds, needed and earned by racing, that were going to be channelled elsewhere? Which is all positive to maintain the momentum commenced by the Australian Jockey Club at Randwick, which again had a headquarters feel on Saturday.