Graeme Patterson
NEW Ovens and Murray chairman Graeme Patterson has praised the efforts of his predecessor after being unveiled as Greg Claney’s replacement.
Patterson was appointed unopposed at a board meeting on Monday night following Claney’s decision to stand down after 13 years at the helm.
Claney will remain on the board.
Patterson said Claney’s tenure as chairman had been underrated by the public.
“Not many people realise the contribution and dedication that Greg has given to the league for nearly two decades,” Patterson said.
“His service to the league has been invaluable and his leadership has helped shape the competition to what it is today.”
Long-serving board member David Sinclair will fill Patterson’s role as deputy chairman.
Patterson will have a fair idea of what to expect in his new role, with the league’s new chairman filling in for Claney for much of last season while Claney travelled overseas.
Claney said he had thoroughly enjoyed his time as chairman of the league.
“I’ve met a lot of different people and had a lot of great experiences,” Claney said.
“It was just time for some fresh ideas.
“That’s the main reason behind it.”
And he had no issue with his replacement, giving Patterson a glowing endorsement.
“He’s been a very hard-working and loyal deputy for a number of years now,” Claney said.
New Ovens and Murray general manager Aaron McGlynn said there was no cause for concern, despite a handful of major changes to the league’s administration in recent weeks.
Claney’s decision to stand down as chairman comes in the wake of Tom O’Connor announcing he would not continue as league boss.
“The league has undergone a number of personnel changes recently but Graeme and David’s continued commitment to the league, along with a dedicated board and staff, ensures the strength and success of the league’s administration,” McGlynn said.
