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Ian Brown takes on Queensland harness job

Senior thoroughbred steward Ian Brown has been appointed as interim chief steward for Queensland’s harness racing industry.

The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission has been criticised for failing to fill the role on a permanent basis following the dismissal of David Farquharson in February.

QRIC Commissioner Ross Barnett said Brown would fill the role for three months while a recruitment process was undertaken.

“He’ll be joined by Neil Finnigan as the acting deputy chief stipendiary steward who is covering long service leave arrangements,” Barnett said.

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Brown is the senior steward at the Gold Coast and often works in Brisbane.

He filled the role of chief integrity officer for several months after Jamie Dart, who was eventually sacked, was stood down.

“The QRIC is undertaking an international recruitment process to fill the chief steward’s position because we want to be sure we attract the best candidates,” Barnett said.

“The commission is also preparing a recruitment process for a number of other senior roles including greyhounds chief steward and Director, stewarding licensing and registration.”