Melbourne get new owners

Melbourne Storm have been taken over by a private consortium, according to chief exectuive Ron Gauci.

Holding MS Australia, fronted by businessman Bart Campbell, have bought the club from News Limited and officially took control on Tuesday.

It marks the dawn of a new era for Melbourne, who were stripped of two NRL titles three years ago for exceeding the salary cap.

Gauci said: “What was the biggest story in 2010 from a negative perspective became the biggest story in sport from a positive perspective only two and a bit years later.

“To be here today, knowing full well that we’ve achieved well ahead of schedule this landmark day, of course I take a lot of pride in that.

“I’m not surprised at all – when you have the right ingredients around you … you shouldn’t be surprised with the success that comes your way.”

The other members of the consortium are likely to be revealed within the next fortnight.