HAWKESBURY RACE CLUB ANNOUNCES NEW CEO

Incoming CEO, Lea Porteous

Wednesday, 1 July 2026

Hawkesbury Race Club is

pleased to announce the appointment of Lea Porteous

as its new CEO, effective

18 July 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.

Jo Moore, Hawkesbury Race Club Administrator said: “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.  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.”

James Heddo, Current CEO said: “I welcome Lea’s appointment and want to acknowledge her work with myself and Jo 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."

Lea Porteous, Incoming CEO said: “It is 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. 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."