NEW general manager Erik Hendrix believes Bendigo Harness Racing Club has plenty to offer for more than just the regular racing follower.
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And he’s keen to ensure as many new patrons as possible get to share that experience at Lords Raceway.
Hendrix has replaced Brendan Baker as the club’s general manager, effective from May 1.
He joins the club following a six-year stint as the PGA professional at Neangar Park Golf Club.
Hendrix is confident the business, event management and administrative skills gained through his previous role would stand him in good stead in his new position.
He has quickly identified attracting new patrons as a priority for the club and hoped to position it as a family-friendly venue, with a reputation for fine catering.
“For me coming in, I can see Adrian Hensley, our head caterer, is producing fine meals on our race nights, which are super affordable,” he said.
“We want people to go down that path, to come out and have a meal and watch the races with their family.”
The new general manager said he would not be lost to the golf course entirely, albeit with a shift in focus.
“I’m actually playing a tournament over at King Island next week, but from a playing point of view it will only be in the social sector from now on,” he said.
“I won’t be playing for money anymore, but at the end of the day, my role (at Neangar Park) was more about teaching and running the pro-shop.
“I’ve been in the golf industry since I can remember and Neangar Park for six years, it’s been a great environment for my family to grow and helped cement ourselves in the community.
“I now look forward to the future here.”
BHRC will host its next meeting on Friday, May 18.