Tiger March hopeful
26 January 2006
Herald Sun
Michael Stevens
RICHMOND'S new president Gary March believes his company will be successful in its defence of a $5 million civil court action.
Speaking at the Tigers' annual meeting last night, March said he wanted to answer speculation about current litigation against his company, Concept Sports International, of which he is managing director.
"The action is a civil matter pertaining to the issue of the prospectus for Concept Sports International when it listed on the ASX in June 2004," he said.
"I'm the managing director of the company and one of the major shareholders.
"The action relates to a number of matters pertaining to the prospectus and has been brought about by a class action against the company, its directors and all of its professional advisers.
"The matter has been ongoing for some 16 months and is not listed for hearing until September this year.
"Like all civil matters, both sides are confident of success and our company and professional advisers are confident of our outcome.
"This is not a criminal matter and none of the directors or individuals are under investigation.
"As it is under current legal proceedings I am unable to discuss certain matters relating to the action.
"However I am happy to take questions on the matter.
"The board and I have discussed this matter prior and post my appointment and the board believes it has no bearing on my job as the president of the football club."
Richmond last night announced a profit of $41,401 for 2005, a turnaround of more than $2.2 million on the $2004 loss.
Defender Darren Gaspar was reinstated to the club's leadership group as deputy vice-captain, alongside Joel Bowden and Matthew Richardson.
Kane Johnson will again be captain with Nathan Brown vice-captain.
Life memberships were awarded to Mark Chaffey, who has played 160 games, and Andrew Kellaway (157).
Coach Terry Wallace said he would not make any predictions about the club's prospects for 2006, but said the Tigers were looking forward to the challenges ahead.
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