TRACKDATA

Tabcorp Holdings Ltd, Australia’s leading gambling entertainment group, today announced the appointment of international wagering executive David Attenborough as Managing Director of its Wagering Division.

Mr Attenborough, 46, was previously the Chief Executive Officer (South Africa) of Phumelela Gaming and Leisure Ltd, the leading wagering operator in South Africa.

UK-born Mr Attenborough worked for Phumelela for six years, and the last 18 months as its Chief Executive Officer (South Africa). His previous experience includes the development of casino and gaming opportunities for the Hilton Group Plc and various roles with British bookmaking company Ladbrokes.

Mr Attenborough brings to Tabcorp an extensive background in totalisator and fixed-odds betting, racing and broadcasting. He has a deep understanding of the racing industry, with Phumelela operating five race courses in South Africa. Tabcorp has a strong relationship with Phumelela which now includes co-mingling of totalisator pools.

Tabcorp Chief Executive Officer, Elmer Funke Kupper, said Mr Attenborough brings strong credentials to Tabcorp. “David’s experience will be very valuable to Tabcorp. There are many parallels between the South African and Australian wagering markets, including intense competition and an uneven regulatory environment. Phumelela has responded to these challenges by developing a strong fixed-odds and online offer and by expanding the South African business internationally.

“Through his role at Phumelela, David has a unique understanding of the issues and funding challenges facing the racing industry. He will bring this experience to the many joint venture relationships and partnerships that Tabcorp has with the racing industry,” Mr Funke Kupper said.

Mr Attenborough said: “I am excited to join Tabcorp which has a great global reputation for wagering. I look forward to working with the wagering team to provide the best wagering offer to Australian customers and lead the business through the changes that continue to unfold in the Australian wagering market.”

Mr Attenborough will become a member of Tabcorp’s Executive Committee. He has an MBA and a Bachelor of Science. He is married with three children and will be based in Sydney. He will start with Tabcorp in May 2010, subject to regulatory approvals.