Bookmaker hid $6.5m in betting turnover

SIMON BEASLEY, arguably the highest-profile rails bookmaker in Australia, faces losing his licence after pleading guilty to two improper practices, including hiding AU$6.5 million in betting turnover.

Beasley will learn his fate when the Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board reconvenes on April 2, although he can continue working on the racecourse in the meantime.

Beasley declined to comment following the 35-minute hearing on Monday at which Racing Victoria stewards reissued charges dealing with improper practices. He pleaded guilty to both, and a further 11 charges were withdrawn.

Terry Forrest QC, appearing for the stewards, told the board that over 2 ½ years, Beasley had not "properly, accurately and completely recorded" 1450 bets on which the turnover amounted to AU$6.5 million.

He said that in October last year, Beasley,or somebody acting on his instruction, attempted to destroy evidence relevant to the stewards' inquiry.

When Judge Lewis, chairman of the board, asked Mr Forrest if Beasley had evaded the Victorian Bookmakers Licence Levy on AU$6.5 million turnover of undeclared bets, he replied: "Yes".

Damian Sheales, representing Beasley, said his client had not tried to avoid payment, but had been guilty of laziness.