David Gallop to lead Venues NSW after Morris Iemma pulls out

David Gallop has been appointed as the chairman of the most powerful sporting body in the state after the government’s first pick for the job pulled out over health concerns.

Former NRL and Australian soccer boss David Gallop has been appointed as chairman of Venues NSW, the most powerful sporting body in the state, after the government’s first pick for the job pulled out over health concerns.

Mr Gallop’s appointment, comes less than a month after cabinet signed off on former Premier Morris Iemma was appointed to the chairman role.

But Mr Iemma, who has been plagued by some serious health concerns since the appointment, has now stepped back. He resigned on August 10, following a medical episode which has required ongoing treatment.

Former NRL and Australian soccer boss David Gallop has been appointed to chair Venues NSW. Photo. Luis Enrique Ascui

Mr Gallop will be the third former NRL boss to be on the Venues NSW board, joining board members John Quayle and Todd Greenberg.

He said he was taking over in an “unusual set of circumstances”.

“I send my best wishes to Morris,” he said.

“I have always thought that the Venues NSW was an organisation that I could bring considerable experience and value to. I know many of the current board members and hold them in high regard,” Mr Gallop said.

Former NSW Premier Morris Iemma has stepped aside. AAP Image

Mr Gallop said that the FIFA Womens World Cup has “shown the power of sport, and particularly women’s sport”.

“I have watched with pride and excitement given my previous role in football which included commencing the bid process for the tournament with the Federal government.”

“The state’s stadium infrastructure has to provide value to government, tax payers, sporting clubs and codes, and the fans who pay to go. Budget affordability is critical and that is why both big sport events and live music are important,” he said.

Sports Minister Steve Kamper described Mr Gallop as an “incredibly qualified candidate” for the Venues NSW chairman.

“David will bring valuable experience working with international organisations including FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation to the role,” he said.

Mr Iemma was due to chair his first board meeting at Venues NSW on Thursday.