Sky Racing Makes Key Race Caller Changes

Sweeping personnel changes are reshaping the landscape at Sky Racing, with several of the network's longest-serving and most familiar voices set to depart as part of a major restructure announced on Wednesday, reports punters.com.au. In a bid to streamline operations across the Tabcorp-owned media platform, the broadcaster is cutting ties with senior figures including Queensland caller Josh Fleming, South Australia's Brett Davis, and leading greyhound commentator Matt Jackson. All three have been mainstays of the racing scene, their departures signaling a shift towards a more centralised and cost-efficient broadcasting structure. Tasmanian veteran Colin McNiff, who recently marked his 35th consecutive Hobart Cup call, is also stepping away after an illustrious career that spanned decades. Sky's media arm will also lose two respected industry names off the air: Gerard Daffy, a familiar face to many punters, and Nichole Thomas, who played a key role behind the scenes in shaping the brand's media identity. Stepping into elevated roles, David Fowler has been confirmed as Queensland's new lead thoroughbred voice, while Tim Edwards takes over primary duties in South Australia. In Tasmania, McNiff's absence will see Duncan Dornauf and Matthew Robertson share calling responsibilities going forward. A Sky Racing spokesperson said the overhaul was about delivering "a simpler and more efficient broadcasting model" that aligns with the broader modernisation plan underway at the network. The announcement prompted swift reaction across the industry, particularly around Fleming's departure, which insiders reportedly regard as the most surprising of the exits. Fleming's long-standing relationship with Sky dates back to his early career, when he became only the second recipient of the prestigious John Tapp Race Calling Scholarship in 2003. Known for his versatility and professionalism, Fleming is said to have been caught off guard by the decision. While the new structure outlines succession plans for the thoroughbred calling teams in Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania, there is yet to be any announcement on who will take over the lead NSW greyhound calling position vacated by Jackson, who had assumed the role following the departure of Tim Newbold and legendary Paul Ambrosoli before him. Senior stakeholders were reportedly briefed on the changes late Wednesday, with the company emphasising that audience and industry feedback played a key role in shaping the new direction. "Sky Racing acknowledges the significant contribution and service that our departing on-air talent have made, not only to the network, but their local racing industries," the spokesperson added.