Controversial Member of Parliament Mark Latham was escorted from the Grandview Restaurant at Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney by police during the Epsom Day racing event on September 30, 2023. The Australian Turf Club confirmed that management requested Latham leave the venue, but he refused to comply.
Police intervened around 14:00 (2:00 PM), engaging in a brief discussion with Latham before ultimately escorting him from the premises. The incident occurred as part of a broader context involving Latham’s previous conduct at the racecourse, where he faced scrutiny for alleged verbal abuse directed at a club official.
Mark Latham had previously resigned from his membership with the Australian Turf Club amid an ongoing investigation into allegations that he verbally assaulted Steve McMahon, the club’s former head of corporate affairs and government relations. This incident took place in April 2023 at Rosehill Racecourse, where Latham was accused of launching a tirade against McMahon in the members’ area. Following the allegations, Latham was placed under a 12-month good behavior bond by the club.
Latham attended the racecourse as a guest of another member, making his way through the Chairman’s Club, an exclusive area where guests are hosted by Racing NSW chief executive Peter V’landys. His presence at the venue raised eyebrows, particularly given his criticism of the state government’s proposed $5 billion sale of Rosehill Racecourse, which would pave the way for the construction of 25,000 homes.
The Australian Turf Club has strict regulations regarding member conduct, especially in light of past incidents involving Latham. As tensions surrounding the management of racecourses and their future developments continue, Latham’s actions and the subsequent police involvement highlight the ongoing controversies within the Australian racing community.
Latham has been approached for comment regarding the incident but has not yet responded. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.
