Peter McGauran has been an incredibly important part of the racing industry for a number of years but that relationship has now come to an end.

The former Federal minister has resigned as chief executive of the Thoroughbred Breeders Association and Aushorse Marketing.

There is no ill feeling or malice behind his departure and instead he says it’s about pursuing new business ventures in the private sector and exploring a new direction in his life.

Like many though TBA president Trevor Lobb says he hopes that in some form or another McGauran remains in the industry.

McGauran will leave his position as soon as a suitable replacement can be found.

“It has been a great privilege to work with Australia’s breeders who rank alongside the most innovative and successful in the world,” McGauran said.

“Australian horses are dominant throughout Asia and regularly adorn the winners’ circle of the major racetracks in the northern hemisphere which is a tribute to the foresight and international outlook of the Australian industry.”

McGauran was a major player during the biggest fiasco to hit Australia back in 2007.

When the equine influenza disaster was at its peak McGauran was the Minister for Agriculture and played a crucial role in the conversation between the industry and the government.

With his support those affected by the cease of racing gained access to a multi-million dollar government aid package.