Racing NSW probes Mudgee Race Club after run-in with Winx breeder’s family

It is an institution of country racing but Mudgee Race Club has been embroiled in controversy over a bullying investigation involving the club secretary and daughter of a prominent racing figure.

The head of a prestigious country race club has temporarily stood down amid a bullying investigation involving the daughter of a high-profile racing figure.

Mudgee Race Club secretary Colleen Walker has temporarily stood aside after Racing NSW revealed it was undertaking an inquiry into her treatment of staff.

The five-month inquiry, which began after The Championships race day in February, is yet to hand down findings.

Mudgee Race Club's Colleen Walker has been temporarily stood down over a bullying investigation.

It is understood Racing NSW kicked off the investigation after allegations were made about the way Mrs Walker treated marketing executive Julia Camilleri at the event.

Ms Camilleri, the daughter of Winx horse breeder John Camilleri, was at the Mudgee event to oversee a VIP Racing NSW luncheon.

Mrs Walker has been an integral figure at the club for years and devoted countless hours and money into keeping it running.

After a bullying complaint was made about Mrs Walker at The Championships, Racing NSW widened an inquiry to look at her behaviour towards staff at several race events.

There is an investigation into Colleen Walker’s treatment of Julia Camilleri (pictured).

Racing NSW sent a letter to the club’s committee in March, warning the entire club would be suspended pending an inquiry into the alleged treatment of Racing NSW staff.

The directors responded, pleading their case to keep the club open given the upcoming race day events. Racing NSW agreed, sources familiar with the inquiry said, but Mrs Walker stood aside while the inquiry was underway.

A Racing NSW spokesman said it did not comment on ongoing inquiries. No charges have been laid and Mrs Walker is not accused of any criminal wrongdoing.

Current and former club committee members, volunteers and staff who had worked at race days were asked to appear at a hearing inside the Mudgee Race Club rooms in late May.

Former committee member Jo McKinnon said Colleen Walker had been the heart and soul of the Mudgee Race Club.

The inquiry, led by stewards Mark van Gestel and Jacqueline Johnstone, was held over two days. Mrs Walker also appeared there with a lawyer.

Racing NSW is now considering what, if any, action it will take against Mrs Walker.

Former committee member Jo McKinnon said the Walkers had been the heart and soul of the club and helped turn it into one of the best country race clubs.

“It’s unfortunate that in all of this the tireless work of the Walkers has probably not been recognised to the extent it should.” she said.

Mrs Walker said it was “inappropriate” to comment on an ongoing inquiry.