Thomas, originally from Wodonga, works in communications at Country Racing Victoria but starts his position at the WDTC on December 7.

Thomas said yesterday he was looking forward to moving back to the Border and starting at the WDTC.

“It’s great being involved in something you love ... this will be the first time I’ve come back full-time (since moving away for work),” he said.

“My parents still live in Wodonga, and my brother (Nathan) plays for Corowa in the O and M and lives in Wodonga, so now the whole family will be back home.

“It’s pretty rare I miss a Wodonga race meeting, so I’ll be back again on Sunday, which is actually my birthday ... (the celebrations) might have to be a little more tepid now but I’m looking forward to it.”

Thomas, who part-owns Shark Attack, a horse trained by Brian Cox, said he expected to use his skills in communications and promotion to help develop the WDTC.

“My present role involves working in communications, promotions, sponsorship and marketing for every country race club in Victoria — I help with communications between CRV and the clubs and CRV and Racing Victoria,” he said.

“I’ll be working closely with the WDTC committee and we’ll try to continue to grow the club’s presence in the community — we want to make it something similar to how people feel about their local footy and golf and bowls clubs, in that it’s something they’re proud of.

“They’ve got the great new members facility there so that’s something the club can utilise to help its bottom line ... and can be used by the whole community.

“I see this as a great step forward, and a great challenge personally, in an area that I’m very passionate about.”

Last week, the club confirmed plans to apply for a Melbourne Cup day meeting, which the club hopes could attract a crowd in excess of 5000 people.