Book on Murray Gleeson sheds light on Fine Cotton comedy

Unknowing participant: Bold Personality had a role to play in the Fine Cotton affair. Photo: Barry Chapman

Perhaps cross-examination by Murray Gleeson, a legend of the Australian legal system, sheds light on Bill Waterhouses role in the Fine Cotton comedy of errors.

Waterhouse, a betting-ring giant, has been cast by some as an innocent bystander, far too clever to be involved in such a mugs caper.

However, Gleeson unravelled the relevance of ''blinking'', regarding the bookmaker, in Murray Gleeson The Smiler(The Federation Press), by Michael Pelly.

In a legal career spanning 50 years, Gleeson had a ringside seat for the political, legal and social events that shaped Australia as well as the Fine Cotton substitution.

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Hardly a punter, Gleeson came into serious racing in 1983 when jockey Bruce Compton and Ernie Smith, stable foreman for champion trainer Tommy Smith, were suspended for six months.

Chief steward John Schreck was on the boil over riding tactics, claiming the favourite was given no chance. Both appealed.

Smith had Michael McHugh, QC, a regular racegoer and AJC member, in his corner and the Australian Jockey Club engaged Gleeson, looking for another heavyweight.

Smith beat the rap but Gleeson obviously impressed, being offered a retainer first claim on his services in any action involving the club.

Originally posted here:
Book on Murray Gleeson sheds light on Fine Cotton comedy