GRSA strengthens commitment to integrity and welfare with new GM appointment
GRSA General Manager, Integrity & Welfare Kelly Rourke with Red
Greyhound Racing SA (GRSA) has appointed Kelly Rourke to the newly created position of General Manager, Integrity and Welfare.
Ms Rourke has extensive management experience at an executive level, most recently as the South Australian State Manager for the National Rugby League (NRL). She is Chair of the Sport SA Women’s Sports Academy Working Group and maintains a passion for sport, having previously played rugby league for England and worked as a player, coach and manager across several codes.
Before her time with the NRL, Kelly held senior roles with both Tabcorp and Greyhound Racing NSW, as well as with the police force in Australia and the UK where she enjoyed a highly successful and decorated career spanning 15 years.
GRSA CEO Bodelle Francis said the industry would benefit immensely from Ms Rourke’s expertise.
“We are thrilled to be appointing someone of Kelly’s calibre to this important position,” Ms Francis said.
“GRSA takes its commitment to welfare and integrity incredibly seriously, and the creation of this new role is a testament to that.
“Kelly’s extensive experience across sport, integrity and compliance made her a perfect fit – it’s clear that she shares our values and priorities as an organisation.
“In her role, Kelly will provide additional leadership and guidance across our dedicated Animal Welfare, Stewarding and Greyhounds as Pets teams to ensure we continue to set and maintain the highest standards of safety and welfare both on and off the track.”
The creation of the position adds another layer to GRSA’s already comprehensive management of these key areas, working closely with the GM Risk & Compliance, Chief Steward and GAP Manager.
“Throughout my career, I have sought roles that allow me to make a real difference in service and sport, and integrity is often at the heart of that,” Ms Rourke said.
“I am thrilled to be returning to the industry and to be back working with these amazing animals and the passionate South Australian greyhound community.
“Greyhound Racing SA is a progressive, innovative and ambitious governing body and I’m looking forward to helping drive its future success.”
Ms Rourke commenced her new role in the first week of April 2023.
Media enquiries: Alexandra Green, Michels Warren PR [email protected] or 0418 608 038