Racing NSW chief executive Peter V’landys has hit out at the “deplorable” treatment of the state’s former police commissioner Mick Fuller.
Last month Fuller was blocked from joining the board of Racing NSW after an investigation by the ABC revealed he had not declared his part ownership of racehorses.
Appointment to the board of Racing NSW requires cabinet approval.
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Mr Fuller told The Sydney Morning Herald in February that he had a 2.5 per cent stake in two horses.
“I’ve met a lot of people through my career, and Mick Fuller is a man of the highest integrity,” V’landys told Radio 2GB’s Ben Fordham.
“I don’t think I’ve met a man of such high integrity, and it’s the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard, that owning 2.5 per cent of a horse with a few mates could influence a decision.
“It’s completely ridiculous and it’s the biggest beat up I have seen.”
Fuller said last month he had always been “open and forthright” about his ownership of the racehorses, telling the ABC he was not required to disclose the interest. He said he complied with all government regulations during his time as police commissioner.
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In 2021, V’landys tried to have Fuller appointed to the Australian Rugby League Commission. The appointment never eventuated, after concerns were raised over a potential conflict of interest should any player end up being the subject of a police investigation.
V’landys said he remains interested in having Fuller appointed to the Racing NSW board.
“We haven’t given up, because the way Mick’s been treated is a complete injustice. I hope it’s rectified and I hope his reputation is restored,” V’landys explained.
“The way he’s been treated is deplorable.”
Fuller retired as NSW police commissioner in January after five years in the job.
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