It was a special night for two magnificent servants of the Pakenham Racing Club on Friday with Michael Duff and Rick Tyrrell both being honoured with prestigious life memberships of the club.
A large crowd – that had filled the events centre for the running of the Pakenham Cup – received an added bonus when Duff and Tyrrell were presented with their Life Memberships in between races.
The induction of both follows the recent induction of former CEO Michael Hodge, who became the 27th Life Member in October last year.
Hodge and Tyrrell – then Treasurer – played key roles in the move from the old racetrack on Racecourse Road to the new facility in Tynong.
RICK TYRRELL
With an unwavering passion for racing, Rick embarked on his journey with the Pakenham Racing Club Committee in 2007.
Already a respected figure within the Pakenham community, Rick had established himself through a triumphant local sporting career and the successful operation of his accounting practice, founded in 1998.
Upon joining the Committee, Rick seamlessly applied his acumen in business and finance, notably contributing as a key member of the Club’s Finance and Audit Sub Committee.
Rick’s pivotal role in orchestrating the transition from the old racecourse to the new state of the art facilities at Tynong, alongside his involvement in the Club’s gaming expansion, particularly the development of Club Officer, underscored his commitment and vision for the Club’s growth and prosperity.
Rick’s tenure of 17 years at the Pakenham Racing Club is marked by his distinguished service.
Serving as the Club’s Treasurer from 2010 to 2023, and later ascending to the role of Deputy Chairman in 2019 before assuming the mantle of Chairman in 2023, Rick steered the Club through significant milestones.
Under his leadership, the Club embarked on an ambitious journey, culminating in its amalgamation with the Cranbourne Turf Club, charting an exciting course for the future.
MICHAEL DUFF
Having grown up in the local area, Michael’s journey with the Pakenham Racing Club Committee commenced in 2006.
With deep-seated ties and a passionate dedication to his hometown, Michael’s connection to the region was palpable, stemming from his thriving oil distribution business across Gippsland and his involvement with the Kooweerup Fire Brigade.
During his tenure on the board, Michael was heavily involved in the relocation of the Pakenham Racecourse.
However, it was his tenure as Chairman of the PRC Gaming Operation Sub Committee that truly underscored his impact, spearheading the development and inauguration of the Club’s second gaming venue at Club Officer.
Michael remained on the Pakenham Racing Club board for a total of 18 years before retiring in 2024.
Beyond his contributions to the Pakenham Racing Club, Michael’s leadership extended to his roles as Chairman of the Bendigo Community Bank Committee and President of the Kooweerup Business Association, further solidifying his commitment to community development and prosperity.
The PRC extends its heartfelt congratulations to Rick Tyrrell and Michael Duff for their outstanding contributions and well-deserved recognition as life members of the Pakenham Racing Club.
