Track role a ’growth opportunity’ for Kristian at Goulburn

Starting a new job can be a dual chance to prove what you know as well as finding an opportunity to learn more about what you don’t.

Goulburn’s new track manager Kristian Mitchell says his recent move to the tablelands is an opportunity for both of those things.

“I think the main thing for me was a chance put my stamp on a track. An opportunity such as a Track Manager’s role doesn’t come up too often so when the job was advertised l jumped on it.”

“I’ve been working in racing for a number of years now and have followed the sport since I was a kid.”

Mitchell makes the move to the tablelands with turf management experience in racing and other arenas under his belt.

“I previously worked with the Australian Turf Club at Royal Randwick in a Senior Foreman role on their tracks team, firstly under Michael Wood and then followed by Dave Anderson.”

“Prior to that l worked as a Turf Manager at a number of Sydney private schools preparing a variety of turf surfaces including cricket and rugby fields.”

Goulburn’s training demands and over twenty race meetings a year mean it’ a full-time job for sure, but Mitchell has already identified there’s plenty of good local knowledge.

“The staff at Goulburn have impressed me with their knowledge and skill level in the day-to-day operations in the short time I have been here.”

Mitchell says he’s also zeroed in on some key focus points early on.

“Continuing to help the team improve in any way possible would be a great asset. Our main attention remains the Course Proper, to keep improving the racing surface for all participants would be our number one goal.”

“Our main sand training track remains a priority, especially with new stables being built in the near future. This will continue to help us grow as a club, retain and attract new trainers to the area.”

Goulburn Race Club CEO Lyndal Talarico says Kristian is a welcome find for the club.

“The club sees Kristian as a strong addition to our management team. His combined practical knowledge and qualifications line up well for a club like ours with a large trainer base and variety of seasonal conditions to respond to.”

Mitchell has plenty of family support too, but jokingly says he could have picked a better season to relocate.

“We’ve made the move down from the Central Coast with the family. Probably could have picked a better time of the year to ease us into the colder weather, but in saying that we have had fewer frosts this year than most!”

Goulburn hosts its next race meeting this coming Friday 17th July, with nominations closing at 11.00am on Monday.

Goulburn Soldiers Club & Goulburn Australia are proud supporters of Goulburn & District Racing Club