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With an impressive career in the events industry spanning over four decades, Sydney Showground General Manager Peter Thorpe has today announced his retirement from the premier Sydney event venue and Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS), bidding farewell to the NSW events industry.

Dedicating most of his career to the RAS, Thorpe started as an apprentice locksmith before quickly becoming the caretaker of the Moore Park grounds. Working his way up through the ranks, Thorpe was appointed the Business Development Manager of Sydney Showground following the venue’s inauguration in 1998, and RAS relocation to Sydney Olympic Park.

After the 2000 Sydney Olympics, Thorpe (pictured) took on his next challenge as General Manager of the Sydney Turf Club, before returning to the RAS in 2011 to take on the role of General Manager, Sydney Showground.

It was in this position that Thorpe took the organisation to new heights, using his extensive knowledge and client relationships to craft Sydney Showground into the event organisation it is today - delivering close to 150 national and international events ranging from music festivals to sporting events and, of course, the flagship event of the RAS, the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

RAS Chief Executive Brock Gilmour says Thorpe has made an incredible contribution to the RAS and has led Sydney Showground with great integrity.

Gilmour notes “Peter’s vision and dedication to the Australian event industry and the success of Sydney Showground is truly remarkable and has earned him great respect across the event sector.

“Through his open, honest, and understanding approach, Peter has managed to put relationships first, creating an organisation that focuses on collaboration and innovation, going above and beyond to bring his client’s dreams to life. It is this vision and legacy that Sydney Showground will take forward, continuing to deliver the big experience and customer service it has become known for.

“We wish Peter all the best in retirement; he will be greatly missed here at the RAS and within the event industry.”

Thorpe says it has been a privilege to watch the organisation grow and adds “to be a part of the Australian events industry and the RAS family has been a great honour, and although it is a bittersweet farewell, I look forward to the chapter ahead.”

Thorpe will be transitioning into retirement to spend more time with his family. His last day with Sydney Showground will be today, Friday 9th July.

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