Queensland Racing Integrity Commission’s integrity regulation unit head Norm Torpey has been permanently reassigned after an investigation into a misconduct complaint.
Former police detective Joshua Elliot will manage the QRIC integrity unit while Torpey will be reassigned to the role as the senior harness racing steward, a position he has filled before..
QRIC Commissioner Ross Barnett said the decision followed an independent investigation found Torpey had not properly investigated a matter reported by an industry participant.
“A complaint was received from a member of the public about a matter that occurred before the Commission commenced in July last year,” Barnett said.
“As of Monday, Torpey has been permanently reassigned from his role as head of the Integrity Regulation Unit to a position as senior stipendiary steward in harness racing.”
Torpey was temporarily reassigned in March as the investigation took place.
Under QRIC policy, Barnett would not elaborate further on the complaint made against Torpey.
“The integrity of the QRIC is of the utmost importance and complaints or issues that arise involving our staff are taken very seriously and fully investigated,” Barnett said.
“People who provide us with information should be assured those matters will be properly investigated.”
Meanwhile, former chief harness racing steward David Farquharson is considering his legal options after he was sacked in February.
Farquharson is believed to still be considering action for wrongful dismissal.
He was stood down in December and then sacked in February after a complaint, the basis of which was not made public.
