A new era is taking shape for the Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania as a major redevelopment of the Hobart Showground moves into top gear. Large slabs are now being erected on the Hobart Showground, as new buildings go up; and a new energy storage centre is being built.
After delays largely caused by Tasmania’s long period of political turmoil, the redevelopment is now forging ahead. At the same time, RAST is rapidly evolving as it positions itself for future sustainability. Its interests now extend from power services to housing development, in addition to its traditional activities, such as the Royal Hobart Show and wine and food shows.
RAST President Peter Spotswood recently stood down to allow fellow director Greg Melick to fully deploy his expertise as a nationally recognised legal, business and governance leader, to head up the Society’s transition. Mr Spotswood continues to serve as a vice president.
Retired Major General Melick AO RFD FANZCN KC brings a particular set of governance and business skills to the role. He is a distinguished Australian who has worked at very high levels of both the public and private sectors, both nationally and in Tasmania.
As the RAST Board’s responsibilities expand and multiply into new areas, Greg is already using his national credentials to drive the Society’s change.
Among other notable accomplishments, Greg has served as a Statutory Member of the National Crime Authority, a Statutory Member of the NSW Casino Control Authority, a Deputy President of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, and the Chief Commissioner of the Tasmanian Integrity Commission. From 2007 to 2010, he was Australia’s most senior Reserve Officer, and he is shortly due to stand down as National President of the RSL.
He will lead RAST as it expands its interests in several fields. This expansion will provide revenues that underpin and secure the future of the Royal Hobart Show, which runs at a financial loss in most years. RAST is now:
Building a new Showground at Glenorchy on a very large site taking up the equivalent of several city blocks.
Adding a large housing component to the site
Running multiple business ventures from this site, including one of Tasmania’s largest motorhome parks.
The Society is also looking at expanding its entertainment and event activities, utilising the new Hobart Showground.
“We already have long developed expertise in running events,” says RAST CEO Scott Gadd. “With a large modern showground now under construction, we’ll be looking at increasing our events portfolio both as a host venue for other activities, and through the development of our own new events, expos, and conference opportunities.”
ENDS