Wests Tigers Board Shake-Up Sparks Criticism from Former Chairman
Former NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell has strongly criticized the recent mass removal of Wests Tigers board members, calling it a "brain fart." O’Farrell, along with three other independent directors, was dismissed by the club’s majority owner, the Holman Barnes Group, despite the club’s improved performance.
O’Farrell joined the Wests Tigers earlier this year during a governance overhaul aimed at resolving long-standing boardroom conflicts between the Balmain and Western Suburbs factions. He expressed bafflement that the overhaul, which generated the club’s first profit in over a decade, was followed by another round of drastic changes.
Dispute Over Boardroom Communication and Strategy
Holman Barnes Group CEO Daniel Paton cited a lack of communication and dissatisfaction with commercial decisions, including the controversial 2026 jersey design and stadium policies, as reasons for the board changes. O’Farrell disputed these claims, noting that multiple Holman Barnes directors sat on the board and had not registered such concerns in meetings.
He highlighted the unified nature of the board’s decisions and questioned the rationale for such a sudden and disruptive overhaul when the club was showing positive signs on and off the field.
Uncertain Future Amid Internal Tensions
Questions remain about the future of CEO Shane Richardson, although club owners have publicly reaffirmed their support. O’Farrell voiced worry that ongoing instability might force the NRL to step in to protect the sport’s reputation.
He praised the previous governance reforms initiated by the Holman Barnes group following the Crawford-Barnier review as the “best thing” seen in rugby league administration. However, he lamented that the latest upheaval did not align with the progress made.
Ongoing Debate Over the Joint Venture’s Direction
Former chair Lee Hagipantelis alleged discussions about dissolving the joint venture to allow Western Suburbs to return independently to the NRL. Paton denied any plans to remove the Balmain side, emphasizing ongoing support for Balmain football and its junior development.
The club faces additional pressure with key players Jahream Bula and Jarome Luai currently negotiating contracts amid the boardroom uncertainty.
O’Farrell’s comments underline deep divisions within the club’s leadership and raise concerns about the Wests Tigers’ stability moving forward.
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