Hall of Fame 2021 Bendigo's Sir Gilbert Dyett
Bendigo born Sir Gilbert Dyett (dec) was inducted into the 2021 Vicitorian Harness Racing Hall of Fame during the online program on TrotsVision last Sunday. He was the first harness racing person ever knighted ( 1927).
Dyett was the secretary of the Victorian Trotting and Racing Association from 1919 to 1949, effectively running Harness Racing on the metropolitan tracks until the commencement of night trotting at the Showgrounds.
Others were Fr Brian Glasheen, Peter Manning, Lou Robertson (dec), Angelique and Shakamaker. Gammalite was elevated to Legend, and Dan Mielicki was voted Fan Favorite
Dyett was the secretary of the Victorian Trotting and Racing Association from 1919 to 1949, effectively running Harness Racing on the metropolitan tracks until the commencement of night trotting at the Showgrounds.
Others were Fr Brian Glasheen, Peter Manning, Lou Robertson (dec), Angelique and Shakamaker. Gammalite was elevated to Legend, and Dan Mielicki was voted Fan Favorite
Harness history: How the Allens from Glenloth reshaped the trots - By Noel Ridge
A Walk in Time: Adelaide Hills Stud - By Noel Ridge
Harness Racetracks of the World: Bendigo. - Peter Craig
Keith Pratt being awarded a 2021 Gordon Rothacker Medal
The passing of Bruce and Val Morgan's life changing horse Denver Gift.
The House that Glideaway Built
Bendigo's 2019 Hall of Famers
Ken Pocock and Noble Scott
Ken Pocock
A broken leg suffered by Golden Square footballer Ken Pocock, while training with VFL team Collingwood, saw the end of a promising football career, but the start of a highly successful career in harness racing.
Ken first worked in Bendigo as a horse and cart delivery driver for Symons dairy and Jeffreys bakery. He learned his craft by working with harness horses for veteran trainers Alf Petherick (Glideaway) and Clarrie Long (Great Dalla).
Early in his career Ken had Kaye Lois, and the 1965 Moomba Cup and prolific winner Fosmar.
He trained and drove standouts including: Peparkee, Chief Invader (1972 Shepparton Gold Cup) Chapel Elect (Melbourne Pacing Cup, Bendigo Cup), Go Van (Ouyen and 3KZ Cups), Game Oro (two Shepparton and two Kilmore Cups).
The champion pacer Royal Gaze won 48 races, 17 seconds, 11 thirds including the Shepparton, Ballarat, Ouyen and A G Hunter Cups. Royal Gaze raced in 3 successive Inter Dominion series, winning 5 heats, and finishing third in Perth in 1974.
Ken was also a highly skilled stud-master. He was involved in the planning and building of the ambitious harness racing property B J Lodge at Goornong, and travelled to the USA in the early 1970s with B J Lodge owner Bernie Ahern where they selected and bought champion US pacers Kentucky and Hilarious Way and stood them at stud.
A broken leg suffered by Golden Square footballer Ken Pocock, while training with VFL team Collingwood, saw the end of a promising football career, but the start of a highly successful career in harness racing.
Ken first worked in Bendigo as a horse and cart delivery driver for Symons dairy and Jeffreys bakery. He learned his craft by working with harness horses for veteran trainers Alf Petherick (Glideaway) and Clarrie Long (Great Dalla).
Early in his career Ken had Kaye Lois, and the 1965 Moomba Cup and prolific winner Fosmar.
He trained and drove standouts including: Peparkee, Chief Invader (1972 Shepparton Gold Cup) Chapel Elect (Melbourne Pacing Cup, Bendigo Cup), Go Van (Ouyen and 3KZ Cups), Game Oro (two Shepparton and two Kilmore Cups).
The champion pacer Royal Gaze won 48 races, 17 seconds, 11 thirds including the Shepparton, Ballarat, Ouyen and A G Hunter Cups. Royal Gaze raced in 3 successive Inter Dominion series, winning 5 heats, and finishing third in Perth in 1974.
Ken was also a highly skilled stud-master. He was involved in the planning and building of the ambitious harness racing property B J Lodge at Goornong, and travelled to the USA in the early 1970s with B J Lodge owner Bernie Ahern where they selected and bought champion US pacers Kentucky and Hilarious Way and stood them at stud.
Noble Scott 1940 - 1966
Leading Australian Stallion for 6 seasons 1957-1962
Noble Scott (U Scott-Widow Volo) was foaled in 1940 at the famed New Zealand Roydon Lodge of Sir John McKenzie.
His sire, U Scott is the greatest sire ever imported into New Zealand. He was the leading stake earning sire of New Zealand on nine occasions, topped the broodmare sires list on ten occasions and the Australian list six times.
Noble Scott was selected In NZ for the new Meadowbrook Stud established at Woodend by the Abrahams brothers by inaugural stud-master Ron Males. He stood his inaugural season in 1945. Noble Scott was raced, winning 6 races, all at Woodend, when trained and driven by Ron Males.
In 1953 Jack Campbell of Barrakee, near Charlton bought Noble Scott from the Abrahams, for a then Australian record price of over six thousand pounds.
He stood at Loddon Valley stud Durham Ox, for 12 seasons.
Noble Scott sired 301 winners in an era when there were limited opportunities as year round metropolitan racing was yet to be introduced.
His winners included the brilliant Inter Dominion winner and sire James Scott, dual Trotters Derby winner Uncanny, the classy Horology, and cup winners Pedro Scott, Chelsea Lodge, the W.A. star and sire of Dainty’s Daughter Scotts Way, and Inter Dominion heat winner and sire Goulburn Monarch.
Noble Scott mares produced, among others the prolific Kodak, V.L. Dullard Cup winners Mary Beverly and Stormy Meadow and Bendigo and Melbourne Cup winner Rhodonite and Cardinal Bruce.
Leading Australian Stallion for 6 seasons 1957-1962
Noble Scott (U Scott-Widow Volo) was foaled in 1940 at the famed New Zealand Roydon Lodge of Sir John McKenzie.
His sire, U Scott is the greatest sire ever imported into New Zealand. He was the leading stake earning sire of New Zealand on nine occasions, topped the broodmare sires list on ten occasions and the Australian list six times.
Noble Scott was selected In NZ for the new Meadowbrook Stud established at Woodend by the Abrahams brothers by inaugural stud-master Ron Males. He stood his inaugural season in 1945. Noble Scott was raced, winning 6 races, all at Woodend, when trained and driven by Ron Males.
In 1953 Jack Campbell of Barrakee, near Charlton bought Noble Scott from the Abrahams, for a then Australian record price of over six thousand pounds.
He stood at Loddon Valley stud Durham Ox, for 12 seasons.
Noble Scott sired 301 winners in an era when there were limited opportunities as year round metropolitan racing was yet to be introduced.
His winners included the brilliant Inter Dominion winner and sire James Scott, dual Trotters Derby winner Uncanny, the classy Horology, and cup winners Pedro Scott, Chelsea Lodge, the W.A. star and sire of Dainty’s Daughter Scotts Way, and Inter Dominion heat winner and sire Goulburn Monarch.
Noble Scott mares produced, among others the prolific Kodak, V.L. Dullard Cup winners Mary Beverly and Stormy Meadow and Bendigo and Melbourne Cup winner Rhodonite and Cardinal Bruce.
Victoria's Harness Racing Hall of Fame
Induction at Lord's Raceway
On Friday, November 8, 2019 at Lord's Raceway, six new members of the Victorian Harness Racing Hall of Fame were inducted, and one current member elevated to Legend.
From Noel Ridge of Bendigo's History and Memorabilia Collection
More greats of the trots joined Victoria's Hall Of Fame at Bendigo, a star-studded honour roll that already includes trotting great Grand Voyage, a hero of Belmont Stud.
The latter was one of two important pioneering trotting stud farms that operated in the early 1900s in Huntly, 10 kilometres north of Bendigo. Earlier this month we shared the story of Adelaide Hill (click here) and today we celebrate Belmont Stud.
For the full story published on TheTrots.org.au website, click this link:
https://www.thetrots.com.au/news/articles/belmont-studs-grand-history-shared-ahead-of-hall-of-fame/
From Noel Ridge of Bendigo's History and Memorabilia Collection
More greats of the trots joined Victoria's Hall Of Fame at Bendigo, a star-studded honour roll that already includes trotting great Grand Voyage, a hero of Belmont Stud.
The latter was one of two important pioneering trotting stud farms that operated in the early 1900s in Huntly, 10 kilometres north of Bendigo. Earlier this month we shared the story of Adelaide Hill (click here) and today we celebrate Belmont Stud.
For the full story published on TheTrots.org.au website, click this link:
https://www.thetrots.com.au/news/articles/belmont-studs-grand-history-shared-ahead-of-hall-of-fame/
Ron Males Remembered
Recently, Melbourne historian John Peck spent time with the late Ron Males' daughter Irene Pilcher, gathering information about this quiet achiever.
Ron trained late in his career from a property on McIvor highway, where the Baptist Church is situated now after spending most of his training career at Oakleigh.
Ron had a long and successful career as an owner, trainer and driver, as well as studmaster and breeder.
Highlights of Ron Males Career
Ron trained Kamal and Brilliant Smokey from his McIvor Rd Property at the end of his career.
Ron trained late in his career from a property on McIvor highway, where the Baptist Church is situated now after spending most of his training career at Oakleigh.
Ron had a long and successful career as an owner, trainer and driver, as well as studmaster and breeder.
Highlights of Ron Males Career
- Trained and drove for 46 years from 12/12/1927 to 4/8/1973
- Won at all 3 operating metropolitan tracks: Richmond, Ascot and Royal Melbourne Showgrounds.
- Won at 31 different country tracks. From Kooweerup to Terang and Cranbourne to Ouyen.
- Recorded numerous doubles and trebles with four wins on the same program three times: Ararat 11/1/36, Ascot 6/4/36 and Shepparton 18/11/50
- Was employed as stud master in the 1940’s at Abraham’s Meadowbrook Stud Woodend.
- In New Zealand, selected Noble Scott (6 times leading Australian sire), and mares for the Abrahams brothers Meadowbrook Srud. Trained and drove Noble Scott to six successive wins at Woodend.
- 17 years later, was stud master for Kevin and Patsy Abrahams at Meadowbrook Stud at Riddell’s Creek.
- Metropolitan training and driving record: Richmond 30 wins, Ascot 80 wins, Showgrounds 11 wins.Victorian Country 177 wins. Additional wins for other trainers: 3
- Notable horses included Cobber O’Mine, Almont Wilkes, Doral’s Derby, Barney Doolan, Glan Grattan (25 metro wins at Ascot), Alfredo
- 1935-36 won country and metropolitan premierships from Bill McKay
- 1939 won metropolitan driving premiership from Hubert Shinn.
Ron trained Kamal and Brilliant Smokey from his McIvor Rd Property at the end of his career.
National Harness Racing Trainer and Driver Memorial
Forty trotting trainers and drivers have died in racing or training accidents since the sport began in Australia.
In conjunction with his Victorian counterpart John Peck, Peter Collier, Historian at Club Menangle, NSW has worked tirelessly for years to identify the people involved and to trace the circumstances of their fatal accidents.
The Club Menangle Memorial Wall was officially unveiled between races on Sunday June 30, 2019 - Breeders Challenge Finals and Len Smith Memorial day.
Two Bendigo District trainer/drivers have been included in the memorial..
JOHN ARTHUR WILSON
John (Jack) Wilson, 53, died on 24 March, 1966. Jack was returning from Lord’s Raceway, Junortoun and had almost reached home when his young pacer shied, throwing Jack in the path of a heavily laden truck of clay. His death was a shock to all that knew him. He was reaping the rewards of hard work and saving.
Jack Wilson had climbed from the bottom rung of the ladder and, with his good wife, built a lovely training establishment overhanging the Bendigo track. Countless young horses, both trotters and pacers and also gallopers, passed yearly through his hands.
He was survived by his wife Winifred and children, John and Janice.
LESLIE PETER HILDEBRANDT
Les Hildebrandt, 27, died in hospital on Monday 18 February, 1985, as the result of injuries he received in a fall at the Moama trials the previous Thursday. He suffered head injuries in the three-horse fall that also included Garth McVeigh and Russell Thomson.
From Elmore, Les was a butcher by trade and had five horses in work and was trying to establish himself.
He was survived by his wife Aileen and two young children aged five and nine months.
John Phyland,
The Sheep Farmer/Breeder/Owner/Trainer/Driver from Balranald
The donation by his grand-daughter Cheryl Haining of a of faded set of racing colours, dark blue with yellow stars, to the History and Memorabilia Collection at Bendigo’s Lord’s Raceway has led to the uncovering, with the assistance of research by John Peck, and website www.classicfamilies.net, of the remarkable story of John Phyland and his horses.
Balranald, in the south-west Riverina district of NSW, is located on the western edge of the vast Hay plain at a place once used to ford the Murrumbidgee River. It was during the period 1890-1918 that John Phyland, son of Irish immigrants, born in 1866, ran a 2000 acre sheep station. The property, Lake Vale, was south of Balranald, towards the Murray River town of Swan Hill.
This would seem to be an unlikely location for a harness racing breeding operation, being over 400 km from Melbourne, where harness racing was centred on the Richmond track.
But, undeterred by distance, John Phyland purchased his first trotter in 1882, and proceeded to acquire expensive high quality standardbred mares and stallions and embark on a venture that saw him:
Balranald, in the south-west Riverina district of NSW, is located on the western edge of the vast Hay plain at a place once used to ford the Murrumbidgee River. It was during the period 1890-1918 that John Phyland, son of Irish immigrants, born in 1866, ran a 2000 acre sheep station. The property, Lake Vale, was south of Balranald, towards the Murray River town of Swan Hill.
This would seem to be an unlikely location for a harness racing breeding operation, being over 400 km from Melbourne, where harness racing was centred on the Richmond track.
But, undeterred by distance, John Phyland purchased his first trotter in 1882, and proceeded to acquire expensive high quality standardbred mares and stallions and embark on a venture that saw him:
- Breed and race winners of major races including The Melbourne Thousand, Bendigo JC Handicap (raced almost continuously on the grass track at Epsom, Bendigo from 1867 to 1946), Boort Cup, and numerous races at the Melbourne metropolitan tracks at Richmond and Ascot
- Acquire Soultline Villa and training stables adjacent to the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds, so he could race at the metropolitan tracks
- Develop a large self-contained training facility (including resident blacksmith) , and home at 19 Raleigh St Essendon
- Become the chair of the Victorian Trotting Horse Owners and Breeders’ Association which lobbied strenuously for night trotting in the 1930’s
- Breed from imported and locally bred mares that left families that are still active today. Heaven Rocks, the Ballarat Cup, NZ Pacing Jewels Emerald 3yo and 4yo and 1:49.6 ($554,529 ) export to the US, is 6 generations on from the Phyland bred mare Dusky Ribbons
- Saw the commencement of the training career of the colourful and controversial Cedric (Ced) McLean, John Phyland’s son-in-law, with a mare left when John Phyland died.
AMERICAN TIME TRIAL SULKY
An American made race sulky owned by the late Kevin Innes was recently donated to the BHRC History and Memorabilia Collection by Grant Innes. The sulky had been stored in a shed at Inglewood for many years.
Royal Gaze and Maoris Idol both performed in the sulky.
It was imported by the late Ken Shand, who perfected gear known as spreaders, and traded at Riddell's Creek as KA Speed Gear.
The sulky was used by Bryan Healy when he drove Maoris Idol in an exhibition at Moonee Valley in 1979.
Roma Pocock used the same sulky when she drove Royal Gaze to a world record for female drivers at Lord's Raceway.
Robert Matchett and the Adelaide Hill Trotting Stud at Huntly
From Carolyn Barraclough, descendent of Robert Matchett.
John Matchett was born Portadown, Northern Ireland approx. 1827. John and his wife Maria (nee Calder) arrived in Australia in 1852 aboard the Marco Polo. They soon moved to the Eaglehawk area following the gold rush. John Matchett was president of the Huntly Shire council in 1869 and was involved in various community organisations. John Matchett did succeed in finding gold. He then opened a grocery and produce store in Mitchell Street Bendigo, which later relocated to Hargreaves Street. A photograph of Matchett's Belfast Store is recorded in 'Victoria's biggest photo album'. (The building still stands today and is a large coffee roaster/ cafe.) When John died in 1903 he was survived by four sons and three daughters. Robert Matchett was born in 1865. John's death recorded in the Bendigo newspaper said he had retired fifteen years previously from his business (abt 1888) in favour of his son Robert. John's home, where he, his wife and two unmarried daughters lived was in View Street. Robert and his wife and three children lived in a property almost backing on to it, in Forest Street. Robert established the Adelaide Hill trotting stud on the land at the corner of present day Wallenjoe Rd and Adelaide Hill Rd in Huntly. Robert Matchett died 27.11.1928., leaving two daughters and a son. Robert's son, also Robert,took over the retail business. The Adelaide Hill Stud horse interests ceased in 1928. |
The remains of Adelaide Hill Stud, 2018
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The 2018 winner of the Aldebaran Park Maori Mile Sparkling Success, trained by John Meade and driven by Junortoun driver Chris Svanosio, was won in a time of 1:53.9. This time smashed the Lord's Raceway Track record. and Sparkling Success becomes the fastest Australian bred trotter on Australian soil. Sparkling Success is a member of the A13 family, known as the FAIR NELL family Fair Nell, foaled in 1888 by General Jackson from a buggy mare, was a trotting winner at the Bendigo Jockey Club’s Epsom Racecourse. She was owned by Sandhurst mining magnate Sam Lazarus of Homebush Estate, just 5 km from Lord’s Raceway. Homebush, once a property of 2000 acres is opposite the Farmer’s Arms Hotel in Junortoun. Junortoun was named for Sam's wife, May Lazarus (nee Junor). The re-naming of the area to Junortoun was because mail to Homebush was often sent to the Sydney suburb of Homebush. As well as Sparkling Success, other members of the FAIR NELL FAMILY include:
and the top trotters:
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The South Atlas Racecourse Was Here In Junortoun First !
Kangaroo Flat's Pacing Champion
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Lord’s Raceway opened in 1954 But before that, the South Atlas Racecourse situated behind the South Atlas Hotel owned by Cohn Brothers, was used for thoroughbred, pony and trotting racing. During 1897, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Queen Victoria's ascension to the throne, the hotel was re-named The Jubilee Hotel, and the racecourse changed to Jubilee Park. The hotel and racecourse were just north of the Lord's Raceway site, where the Domain Village and properties of trainers Gary Graham and Trevor Monk are today. The hotel was delicenced in 1907, and races on the Jubilee Park track discontinued. March 12, 1895, Bendigo Advertiser: The South Atlas Hotel burned down. The racecoursegrandstand was saved “Yesterday afternoon between 2 and 3 o’clock, a fire occurred at the South Atlas Hotel on the Mc Ivor Road. The licensee Mrs. Spittle detected the smell of something burning, and saw smoke issuing from the hotel. In the mean-time a man named Samuel Diamond, who is employed at the premises, returned from Bendigo, and with the aid of a young man, he cut away a portion of the fencing which encloses the grandstand at the South Atlas Racecourse, and thus prevented the fire extending further in that direction. In the absence of water it was impossible to save the main building which was totally destroyed, only the bare brick walls remaining. A temporary shed adjoining, used as a bar when races are held on the course, was also consumed. The results of the inaugural Golden City Racing Club trotting races conducted at the South Atlas/Jubilee Park Racecourse in 1897 BENDIGO> The inaugural race meeting of the Golden City Racing Club at the South Atlas course, McIvor Rd 09-06-1897 TRADESMANS TROT – 7 sovs – Two miles H Reeds grm FLORA T, 5secs in front (Reed) 1 AE Boldts bg5 Jumbo, 10secs in front (Boldt) 2 R Wearnes bma Tassy Girl, scr (Kenny) 3 Others: Topsy (10secs), Alice (10secs), Toby (10secs), Jerry (10secs), Young Robin (7secs in front), Rubicon (scr), Jim (5secs), Orcus (5secs), Johnny (10secs), Darkie (13secs), RD (20secs) Time: 5m 38 1/2s These Trotting Clubs were among those that raced at the South Atlas Racecourse:
Did You Know?
That Mirthful Lass (Don’s Ayr from Miss Mirth) , the dam of 1969 Bendigo Cup and Miracle Mile winner and Harness Racing Hall of Famer Adaptor, was no slouch as a racehorse, winning 12 of her starts. Raced by Mrs M. Tuohey of Serpentine, she won her first race as a 2yo in 1954, a heat of the Breeder’s Plate at Shepparton, and then a heat of the Victorian Sapling Stakes at the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds driven by Albert Rothacker. Subsequent wins: As a 3yo: Shepparton, Bendigo, Terang, Royal Melbourne Showgrounds As a 4yo: Two at the Showgrounds As a 5yo: Two at the Showgrounds As a 6yo: Free-For-Alls at Shepparton and Wangaratta She was driven during her career by: Albert Rothacker, Gordon Rothacker, Wally Marshall, Dal Fitzpatrick, Jack Moore, John Dewhirst. For her last six starts, including her final win, she was driven by Ted Zimmer. At stud she left the brilliant Adaptor, and the good winner Aransas. Adaptor driven by Jack Hargreaves, wins the 1969 Miracle Mile. |
1917 NZ TROTTING CUPAdelaide Direct's 1917 New Zealand Trotting Cup to return to Addington for the 100th Anniversary of her history making win.
The spectacular silver cup won by Adelaide Direct when she won the 1917 New Zealand Trotting Cup at Addington, Christchurch, will be returning to the track with Bendigo Harness Racing Club's Racing Manager Brendan Baker in November. Adelaide Direct, owned by Sam Lewis of Parker's Plains, Baringhup ( near Maldon) was leased to New Zealand Trainer-driver Manny Edwards when she won the cup as well as the 2,200 Sovereign purse. Click here to see the Bendigo Advertiser article on the presentation of the cup to BHRC. www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au/story/3088986/prized-cup-makes-way-to-lords/ |
59 BENDIGO CUPS AT EPSOM & LORD'S RACEWAY
ieUntil recently it was thought that Kalamas Peak was the first winner of the Bendigo Pacing Cup.
Research has confirmed that Kinnie Bazil was the first winner, at the inaugural race meeting of the Bendigo Trotting Club, formed in 1923. Incredibly, there were four cups conducted at the Bendigo Jockey Cub track at Epsom in 1924. The original Bendigo Trotting Club went into recess after the 1932 cup. |
Bendigo Cup (original)
Run at Epsom Racecourse Bendigo 1924 Feb: Kennie Bazil, William Riedell (Tongala) 1924 July: Grand Voyage, Paddy Glasheen (Huntly) 1924 Oct: Queen Pirate, Paddy Glasheen (Huntly) 1924 Dec: Dummy, Bill Fortington (Horsham) 1929 First Cast, Orme Marshall (Ballarat) 1930 Princess Mauritius, George Gath (Footscray/Port Melbourne) 1932 Le Wilkes, Alex McPherson (Stawell) The Bendigo Pacing Cup Run at Lord’s Raceway Bendigo 1965 Kalamas Peak, Jack Moore 1966 Sweet Trip, Bruce Coram 1966 Wongala Glen, Bill McKenzie 1967 Raiarmagh Pool, Gordon Rothacker 1968 Race date changed 1969 Adaptor, Jack Hargreaves 1970 Tara Meadow, George Gath 1971 Miss Raidal, Brian Morse 1972 Rhodonite, Dick Lee 1973 Unique Hanover Stan Walsh 1974 Gallagher, Gordon Rothacker 1975 Glamour Chief, Rex Robinson 1976 Chapel Elect, Ken Pocock 1977 Bay Chapel, Vin Knight 1978 Lincoln Star, Bob Conroy 1979 Freedom Day, Kevin Murray 1980 Deans Special, Des Ritchie 1981 Taronga, Cliff Powell 1982 Popuar Alm, Bob Knight 1983 Copper Way, Ted Demmler 1984 Thor Lobell, Stephen Dove |
1985 Henry Bruce, Noel Shinn 1986 Bag Limit, Vin Knight 1987 Bag Limit, Vin Knight 1988 Quite Famous, Jim O’Sullivan 1989 Rowleyalla, Kevin Rivett 1990 Empire Fella, Peter Ward 1991 Aim First, Gavin Lang 1992 Lord Muckalee, Graeme Morgan 1993 The Unicorn, Stephen Dove 1994 Dark Paul, Mark Peace 1995 Knight Rainbow, Chris Alford 1996 Brabham, Mark Purdon 1997 Anvils Star, Ricky May 1998 Captain Rufus, Ted Demmler 1999 Hushed World, Craig Demmler 2000 Tailamade Lombo, Chris Alford 2001 Bancoora Next, Graeme Lang 2002 Mother Courage, John Caldow 2003 Sokyola, Lance Justice 2004 Robric Jonboy, Max Wishart 2005 Scruffy Murphy, John Justice 2006 Regal Dash, Greg Sugars 2007 Sting Lika Bee, Darryl Douglas 2008 Safari, Brian Gath 2009 Changeover, David Butcher 2010 Sammy Maguire, Gavin Lang 2011 Smoken Up, Lance Justice 2012 Decorated Jasper, Jodie Quinlan 2013 Sushi Sushi, Greg Sugars 2014 Im Corzin Terror, Chris Alford 2015 Christen Me, Dexter Dunn 2016 Lenny The Shark, Chris Alford 2017 My Kiwi Mate, Jodie Quinlan 2018 Messini , Anthony Butt 2019 San Carlo, Rebecca Bartley |
KEN WILLS
RESPECTED Bendigo horseman Ken Wills passed away on Friday January 6, 2017 , aged 86. Ken commenced working with horses after school with his father Les, who trained gallopers and pacers from a property at Golden Square in Bendigo.
As an 18-year-old, Wills became foreman for leading Victorian thoroughbred trainer Jack Holt at Mordialloc, then for Stan Piper at Mentone. When Stan Piper sold his stables to Angus Armanasco, Wills returned to Bendigo, working gallopers for Wally Hyatt, proprietor of the Bendigo Timber company, and the first president of the Bendigo Trotting Club. Hyatt had some harness horses, so Wills began to train those. His first winner as a trainer-driver was Placid Peter. At 22, he moved to Barellan to train for George Inglis and other owners including Len Walker. Standout horses were Star Hill, which won won at Harold Park as a 10-year-old in 1958, breaking a two-year drought, and Last Scott, a Kiwi-bred son of U Scott which later sired winners. Wills returned to Bendigo, and with his wife Elaine established a property named Star Hill Lodge from where he trained a string of high class horses including Victorian Breeders’ Plate winner Pacing Scott and the dual Oaks winner Lynmont. Wills also trained gallopers including Jet Land. Wills considered his best horse to be Star Hill. During an interview in 2016 he said: “He was my first good horse…and like a pet dog would follow me anywhere”. Ken’s last winning drive was on Farrazan at Ararat in December 1985. Sons Laurie, Dennis and Brian and their families continue to be actively involved in harness racing. High class pacers Wills was associated with include are: Star Hill (Easter Handicap Sydney), Last Scott (later sire of 68 winners), Miracle Echo (inaugural Central Victorian Championship), Pacing Scott (1961 Vic Breeders Plate), Dale Spring (later sire of 165 winners), Lynmont (dual Oaks winner), Perfect Hanover (Maryborough Cup) and Brett Armagh (Heat WA Pacing Cup). |
BOB BIRTHISEL
Bob Birthisel , a resident of Strathaven Home in Bendigo died on Saturday, November 19, at age 92.
A prolific central Victorian trainer, Bob Birthisel trained and drove his last winner at age 79 on April 7 in 2003, when Cranky Jack won the Kilmore Veterinary Practice Pace. See result here: http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=KI070403&ms=vic His career highlights included winning the 1966 V L Dullard Trotters Cup with Panther’s Flight and then claiming the same crown in 1974 with Stormy Meadow. Another star was Stormy Day. He won the 14th Central Victorian Trotting Championship Final in 1997 with WatchmewiBob Birthisel was considered a leader among participants, and in 1968 was installed as co-vice-president, along with Neville Gath, on the first Trotting Trainers and Drivers Association of Victoria board. He was also a past-president of the Bendigo Owners/trainers/divers association. |
Veteran Drivers: The Fifth Annual Veteran Drivers Trot
The Annual Veteran Drivers Trot at Lord's Raceway has become one of the highlights of the year's racing calendar.
The race, named for the Oxley Feed Mills sponsors, attracets and features drivers who competed at the Melbourne Metropolitan track, the "colliseum"- The Melbourne Showgrounds and later at Moonee Valley. All are still competing as trainers or drivers. The 2016 field is: Brian Gath A member of the famous Gath dynasty drove his first winner at the Royal Melbourne Show in 1960. Has trained and driven multiple champions from Corop McEwen, to Safari. Won the 1978 Melbourne Inter Dominion Pacers Final with Markovina and finished second with Franco Tiger (1992 and Shakamaker (2002). Trained and drove Betty Hall to win the Vicbred Super Series for 2yo Trotting Fillies in July 2016. Has driven in Europe and the U.S.A. Leading Vic driver: 73-73, 76-77, 80-81. Leading Vic trainer: 80-81 Ginger Gleeson Drove his first winner Gay Tonic, at Terang in 1967 when 16. Drove for many successful stables, with nine Group One winners including Cunning Lad (Qld 4yo Championship), two Melbourne Pacing Cups: Constant Rhythm and Cunning Lad and a Shepparton Cup on Game Oro. Other wins include an Ouyen Cup: Go Van, Victoria Cup with Robert Preneur and two Trotters Oaks with Rainbow Idol and Rainbow Billy. Trains at Bacchus March. Graeme Lang Started as a teenager at Watchem in the Mallee driving his first winner in 1954. Dairy farmed at Warragul while training and driving, before moving to Romsey and then Melton. 2012 Rothacker medalist. Father of leading driver Gavin and former trainer Chris. Trained and drove Interdominion trotting standouts: Scotch Notch (1983-1st, 1984-2nd, 1985-1st), Wagon Apollo (1996-3rd, 1997-2nd), Desperate Comment NZ (1997-5th). Sent Champion trotter Scotch Notch to the US in 1986 after she recorded 1.56.6. Leading Aust. driver in ‘79, Leading Vic driver ‘68-’69. Leading Vic trainer: 75-76, 76-77, 78-79, 79-80, 91-91. Ian (Dick) Lee Multiple Derby winning trainer/driver, who spent time in Wales at Prestatyn Raceway in the 1970’s. Top horses include 4 times pacing Derby winner Rufus Youngblood, Bendigo Cup winner Rhodonite, Dullard Cup winning trotters Glenfield Girl, Game Ebony, and Hamdens Pride. Trains at Weering in the Western District. Won this race in 2013 Peter Manning. Master trainer of juveniles before expanding to train a large team at Great Western. 2007 Rothacker medalist. His three training/driving daughters include world record setting driver Kerryn. Standout horses include star juveniles Kathryn Dancer, Pelicanrama and Boa Vista Lombo. Trained the champion international trotter Knight Pistol and 1996 Australian 2yo Pacer of the Year Sheza Mona. Continues to train a large team. Leading Australian trainer in 2004/5. Leading Vic trainer: 99-2000, 2004-5, 2005-6, 2006-7 Jim O’Sullivan Trained and drove standouts including Margaret Shannon, Quite Famous and It’s Motor Power. He is a dual Interdominion winning driver winning the 1987 Inter Dominion Pacers Final with My Lightning Blue and the 1989 ID trotting final with Yankee Loch. Trains locally at Heathcote. Leading Australian trainer 1978 and 79 Cliff Powell Trains at Elmore. First winning drive at Bendigo was Convive. Cliff trained and drove Derby Royale to victory in the 1978 Inter-dominion Trotter’s final in Melbourne to end Maoris Idol’s unbeaten streak. Has trained and driven many top pacers including Our Grattan (Ouyen Cup), Modern Man, Belgian Accent (Shepparton Cup) Bendigo Cup winner Taronga, and Paula Morley (Echuca Cup and Ladyship Cup). Keith Pratt Won the first BHRC Veteran Driver’s Trot. Keith’s father Cyril was the original Lord’s Raceway track curator. Keith, an HRV distinguished service award recipient, was long time Clerk of Course at Lords Raceway. He drove his first winner at Echuca in 1966. Trains and drives a team from his property, less than 2 Km from the track. He rates Crystal Sunset, Pannoo Lass, Torvanger and Arrogant Al among his best horses. Noel Shinn A member of the Shinn Family with a century of participation in trotting. Noel’s grand-father Hubert won races in four States and captured a Melbourne driving premiership in 1933/34. His sons were Bill, Frank and Reg. Noel, son of Reg, has achieved the most Melbourne driving (158) and training (198) successes of any of the family. Had the first triple Victorian Sire Stakes champion Colbruce, and Inter-dominion finalists Colbruce and Stormrider. Galarion won 10 of only 14 starts. Noel drove all nine winning foals of broodmare gem Pilgrim. Bill Spiteri Commenced driving his own trainees at the Showgrounds in 1961, but drove his first winner Provoke at the old Ararat track in 1962. Frayne Again 1975 and Wise Ruler 1976 won consecutive Maryborough Cups. Lara General and Frayne Again raced on in the USA. Brigadier General and Tee Cee Country were good winners for Bill. Currently racing Marios Dream. Bill trains at Mt Cotterell. Neville Welsh The 2012 Gordon Rothacker Medallist, and Hall of Famer who has driven winners in every decade since 1953. Started by driving track work for father Lew first at Beaufort, then Sydenham, and drove his first winner Sea Witch at Horsham when sixteen. Career highlights include the 1971 AG Hunter Cup with Son of Nancy and the 1974 National Drivers Invitation at the Melbourne Showgrounds on Truant Armagh. Leading Vic driver in 1970/71 and 1971/72 when he drove 81 and 84 winners. Still drives his team from Elmore sharing duties with son Clinton. Graeme Whittle A hobby owner/trainer/driver who had good horses and a lot of success at the Showgrounds and Moonee Valley. Some of his standout horses were Tweedsmuire, (1977 Stawell Cup), Joueur (Echuca Cup), Slow Coach and more recently Melpark Sunrise won the Tontine for Trotters. Graeme trains a team at Bacchus Marsh. Recently won twice with Zoomas Legend. Won this race in 2014. |

The First Time Trotting hit the front page of any Australian Newspaper
A Trotting Match at Bendigo
Did You Know?
July 22, 1876 was the first time that trotting made the front page of any Australian Newspaper
The Police Times (Melbourne) headlined:
The Great Trotting Match at the Bendigo Racecourse.
Teviot of Sandhurst v Alice May (Castlemaine) for Four Hundred Pounds
Over 3,000 patrons flocked to the Epsom course for the three trotting heats: 3 miles, 4 miles and then 5 miles.
A Trotting Match at Bendigo
Did You Know?
July 22, 1876 was the first time that trotting made the front page of any Australian Newspaper
The Police Times (Melbourne) headlined:
The Great Trotting Match at the Bendigo Racecourse.
Teviot of Sandhurst v Alice May (Castlemaine) for Four Hundred Pounds
Over 3,000 patrons flocked to the Epsom course for the three trotting heats: 3 miles, 4 miles and then 5 miles.
Adelaide Direct's 1917 New Zealand Cup
Adelaide Direct's 1917 New Zealand Trotting Cup ....at Bendigo Wednesday night, May 20th 2015 .a significant part of Bendigo District's trotting history was Lord's Raceway .
The 1917 New Zealand Trotting Cup, won by Adelaide Direct Adelaide Direct Australia’s First Winner of the New Zealand Trotting Cup The very best. That’s how the New Zealand Trotting Cup, run annually in November at Addington, Christchurch, is regarded. Pacing stars that have won the race include the world’s first pacing millionaire Cardigan Bay, the immortal Johnny Globe and his son Lordship and three time winners Indianapolis and Terror To Love. More recent winners include Adore Me, Flashing Red and Christian Cullen. Since the race commenced in 1904 very few Australian pacers have won New Zealand’s most prestigious race. Only one horse managed this between the first in 1904 and Steel Jaw’s victory in 1983. Bendigo district mare, Adelaide Direct, was the first Australian winner in 1917. Adelaide Direct, foaled in 1906 was a product of the imported stallion Directway, and an Honest Harry mare. Directway US, stood at Robert Matchett’s Adelaide Hill Stud at Huntly on the outskirts of Bendigo. . The unnamed Honest Harry mare was owned by Parker’s Plains (Baringhup near Maldon) horseman Stan Lewis. Lewis raced her first with James Kennedy. Her first win was at Marong in November 1911, followed by 2 wins on the same card at Charlton. She was then trained by Frank Ridley at Fitzroy, winning at country meetings as well as at Richmond, the main Melbourne track before being returned to Lewis. A leading New Zealand trainer Manny Edwards, at the time training in Australia leased the mare in 1914, and took her to New Zealand, where she raced for three seasons before winning the 1917 New Zealand Cup worth 2,200 sovereigns. At that time she held the Australasian records for both one and two miles. Adelaide Direct was returned to Baringhup where she was bred from. Her descendants have bred on. The most recent winner from her family was Shes So Cool at Northam in WA in 2013. |
Seven Bendigo Trotting Cups at Epsom Racecourse.
Two won by Belmont Stud's Busst and Glasheen
Research in the files of country newspapers by Harness Racing Historian John Peck, and listed on
http://www.classicfamilies.net/cf/ClassicRaces.aspx?RaceID=4367 has revealed that there were seven Bendigo Trotting Cups in the 1920s and early 1930's raced on the turf at the Bendigo Jockey Club's' Epsom racecourse. Amazingly, there were four Bendigo Cups conducted by the newly inauguarated Bendigo Trotting Club in 1924. The first, of 100 pounds, run at the inaugural Bendigo Trotting Club meeting on February 16th was won by Kinnie Bazil driven by William Riedell The second, run on July 19th was won by champion trotter Grand Voyage, owned by Busst and Glasheen of Belmont Stud in Huntly, and ridden by Paddy Glasheen. The third, postponed fron October 22 to October 28 due to 9 days of continuous rain was won by Queen Pirate NZ, again owned by Busst and Glasheen and piloted by Paddy Glasheen. Then in December, a fourth Bendigo Cup was won by Horsham gelding Dummy, trained and ridden by Horsham barber Bill Fortington. The cup was not run again until 1929, when First Cast, Orme Marshall of Ballarat was the victor. The following year 1930 saw Princess Mauritus trained and driven by a young George Gath (then aged 23) win. There was a gap of another 3 years until 1932, when Le Wilkes driven by Alex McPherson of Stawell won the Bendigo Cup. So, the honour roll of Bendigo Cups, conducted on the turf at Epsom, before the building of Lord's Raceway reads: 1. 1924 KInnie Bazil ( W Reidell) 2. 1924 Grand Voyage ( P Glasheen) 3. 1924 Queen Pirate ( P Glasheen) 4. 1924 Dummy (W Fortington) 5. 1929 First Cast ( O Marshall) 6. 1930 Princess Mauritius ( G Gath) 7. 1932 Le Wilkes ( A McPherson) |
Hall of Fame Trotter: Huntly Hero Grand Voyage
Historic Race Sulky Now in the BHRC Collection
Grand Voyage
Hall of Fame Trotter’s Sulky. Courtesy of Fr. Brian Glasheen This sulky was purchased by trainer Paddy Glasheen during Grand Voyage’s New Zealand campaign in 1922. It was also used by Paddy’s son Jack Glasheen who trained at Preston. The Jack Glasheen trained Major Miracle won 8 races at the Showgrounds using this sulky. Owned and trained at Belmont Stud, Pitt St Huntly (Bendigo), Grand Voyage was an outstanding Australian trotter. Some claim he was greater than Fritz and the equal of Maoris Idol. Foaled in New South Wales in 1913, and trained and driven throughout his career by Paddy Glasheen, Grand Voyage commenced his preparation at the tender age of nine months at Glasheen and Busst’s Belmont Stud Farm Pitt St. Huntly. By a prolific sire of trotters in First Voyage, Grand Voyage was from Blonde Grattan (imported by the Tye brothers), a daughter of the great Canadian sire Grattan. Grand Voyage’s reputation preceded him to the racetrack, and when he was produced for the main Victorian classic for young trotters, the Futurity Stakes, all of his opposition had pulled out of the race except one rival, whom he beat at 20 to 1 on in the first heat and again disposed of easily in the second heat, in which there was no betting. The potential of Grand Voyage was recognized by all, including the handicapper who saw to it that the black champion won no race easily. After his Futurity win, Grand Voyage was spelled and did a light season of stud duty. At his second start, in January 1917, the three-year-old won from 60 yards behind against older horses at the Richmond (Melbourne) track in a time barely slower than in which the Richmond Cup, run the same day, was decided. In subsequent starts he raced from 85 and 115 yards behind, the latter occasion producing another fantastic winning performance. As a rising five-year-old Grand Voyage defeated the hoppled pacers for the first time, subsequently a common sight. In June 1919 he won twice on the day at Epping (Harold Park) in Sydney, each time setting a record, then at the Melbourne Showgrounds where he set a mile record of 2:16 3/5 after a tremendous battle from even marks with the very good pacer Sarilla the winner of 23 races at Ricmond. In 1921, back in Sydney, Grand Voyage reduced the winning record at Epping to 2:13. Grand Voyage won the first Boort Pacing Cup in 1921, starting from 280 yards behind ! 1921 BOORT CUP – 50 pounds – One & half miles GRAND VOYAGE**, 280yds (P Glasheen) 1 Red Rock, scr (I Kelly) 2 Mayfield, 75yds (M Quinn) 3 Others: Artist (scr), maxim Direct (scr), Road King (scr), Emmie Direct (75yds), Tearaway (165yds), Straightaway (195yds) **Raced as Bonnie Voyage Margins: 6 lgths X 10 lgths Time: 3m 54s He was then taken to New Zealand. His 1922 Otahuhu Cup worth 1000 Sovereigns ($2000) against the best New Zealand pacers from 48 yards in a race record 4:31 3/5 was considered by Glasheen his most outstanding effort. On return from New Zealand, he won further races including the original Bendigo Cup at the Bendigo Jockey Club track at Epsom. In all, Grand Voyage won 37 races, driven in all of them by Glasheen. |
Hidden Harness Gems at Lord's Raceway.
For the full article, photos and video,
go to http://www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au/story/2822040/hidden-historical-harness-gems-video-photos/ DEEP in the bowels of Lord’s Raceway lays a hidden chest of harness racing history. Driver's silks, walls of photos of champions, the entire trophy collection of Mother Courage, sulkies, newspaper articles that date back as far as the 1880s, race programs, books, presentation rugs and even old calls of races on vinyl record are all part of the collection on display in the library underneath the grandstand at Lord’s Raceway. “We’ve been doing it for two years and basically it’s to collect and honour the industry,” Bendigo Harness Racing Club historian Noel Ridge said this week. “We’ve got pieces that go back to long before Lord’s Raceway was even open... back to the 1880s when there was a trotting track in the middle of the gallops track at Epsom. “Up until World War 2 the jockey club program had two or three trotting races as well.” Having toured the library this week, you don’t have to just be a harness racing aficionado to appreciate the significance of many of the pieces on display. |
Bendigo Harness Racing celebrated 60th Anniversary of Lord's Raceway - 15 November 2014
Were you there? Opening night at Lord's Raceway was on the 17th November 1954. There were 14,000 people at Lord's Raceway on Opening night with the Bendigo Advertiser reporting a major traffic jam on McIvor Road with cars making a bumper to bumper line from the racetrack to the town's centre. Drivers from the original meeting attended the 60th Anniversary meeting on November 15, 2014. They were Ted Zimmer whi drove a winner , Bob Birthisel who drove a second place getter, Des Rothacker, Norm Mannix and Colin Redwood.
Dosser donation to BHRC Library24 July 2014 - Harness Racing enthusiast David Dosser recently made a donation of a collection of photos books and magazines to the BHRC's library and memorabilia room at Lord's Raceway.
Ken Wills memorabilia goes on display at Lord's Raceway
3 July 2014 - Bendigo Harness Racing Club has a new addition to the Club's Library and Memorabilia collection. Former top trainer/driver Ken Wills, now 84, has donated a collection of photos and items including race photos of top standardbreds Star Hill, Lynmont, Last Scott and Bret Armagh. The Ken Wills green and white racing silks are also proudly displayed. Noel Ridge is putting together the display at the track which will be open for public viewing from 18 July.
Gosh he was good!Henry McDermott's local star in the mid to late 1980's was Gosh. He was by Meadow Hanover (Meadow Skipper), an unraced half brother to Kentucky. Gosh won 14 of his first 17 starts and went on to bankroll $322,000 from 36 race victories. In all he had 108 starts and was only out of the prize money on 8 occasions. His best wins were the 1986 SA Pacers Cup beating Bag Limit and Vanderport, a heat of the 1985 Inter Dominion Pacing Championships at Moonee Valley beating Thor Lobell and the 1984 4yo Pacing Championship Final at Moonee Valley. He was retired shortly after finishing 3rd to Karalta Gift at Moonee Valley on 6 June 1987. Another of Henry McDermott's other stars of the 1980's was the Paleface Adios look-alike Quamby's Pride (Deep Adios - Lady Bangaroo) which won the 1980 Queensland Derby. (David Aldred)
Bendigold, Bendigo's 1st heroBENDIGOLD was the local 'champion' at Bendigo in the mid 1950's. He was almost a 'good thing' every time he raced at Lord's Raceway, winning 10 of his 14 race starts here. READ THE BENDIGOLD STORY
VIEW THE BENDIGO HARNESS RACING CLUB LOCAL HISTORY BHRC'S historical collection growing![]() BHRC's Noel Ridge unloads donated additions to the library
Bendigo's Harness Racing Library and Memorabilia Room is growing every week. The BHRC has recently received additions to the library from Mary Sweeney and Barb and Bob Lomas. Mary Sweeney has donated a trophy cabinet full of local hero Mother Courage's cups and trophies together with a pictorial history of some of Mother Courage's great wins. The Lomas' contribution includes a Trotting Stud Book Collection, Harness Racing hard cover books and magazines and rare collection of harness race videos. For contributions to the library contact BHRC historian, Noel Ridge on 0400 923956 or the BHRC office on (03) 5449 3205
Gentleman John’s 58 year-old sulky is now part of the BHRC Library & Memorabilia Collection![]() In 1956, Bridgewater owned pacer, Gentleman John, carved his name on the Inter-Dominion roll by winning Sydney's second championship series. Driven by his trainer, Eric Rothacker, who at 26 was at that time the youngest reinsman to win the race, Gentleman John came off 12 yards and got up in the last stride to score by a head, rating 2:08.8 for 13 1/2 furlongs.
The 1956 carnival was marred by atrocious weather conditions which caused four postponements. As a result, the series ran nine days longer than the fortnight originally scheduled. The final, run on a Monday night because of the postponements, drew 34,020 spectators, who cheered the house down as Gentleman John and Mineral Spring fought out a nail-biting finish. Unique books added to Bendigo's harness racing library at Lord's Raceway![]() A heartfelt thank-you to Lesley Gillies for her donations of a large number of unique books from the late Alan Gillies personal collection to the Bendigo Harness Racing Club History and Memorabilia Library at Lord's Raceway.
The Bendigo Harness Racing Club's Library and Memorabilia Room is now open most race days at Lord's Raceway - Committeeman Noel Ridge is our Club's local historian and the club is building quite a collection of interesting books, photos, magazines, records and racing silks. Donations to the library and memorabilia are welcome.
Adelaide Direct Bendigo’s Star of the early 20th Century![]() Adelaide Direct wins the 1917 NZ Cup
The very best that trotting can offer. That’s how the New Zealand Trotting Cup, run annually in November at Addington, Christchurch, is regarded.
Pacing stars that have won the race include the world’s first pacing millionaire Cardigan Bay, the immortal Johnny Globe and his son Lordship and three time winner Indianapolis. Since the race commenced in 1904 very few Australian pacers have won New Zealand’s most prestigious race. Only one horse managed this between the first in 1904 and Steel Jaw’s victory in 1983. Bendigo district mare, Adelaide Direct, was the first, in 1917. Adelaide Direct, foaled in 1906 was a product of Adelaide Hill Stud at Huntly’s imported stallion Directway, and an Honest Harry mare. The unnamed mare bred at Elmore was owned by Parker’s Plains (Baringhup near Maldon) Stan Lewis. Lewis leased her first to James Kennedy. She was then trained by Frank Ridley at Fitzroy, winning at country meetings as well as at Richmond, the main Melbourne track before being returned to Lewis. A leading New Zealand trainer Manny Edwards, at the time training in Australia leased the mare in 1914, and took her to New Zealand, where she raced for three seasons before winning the 1917 New Zealand Cup. History for Adelaide Direct (1906) Year List or Race Name Where Time/$/Group 1913-14 Vic Richmond Flying (Jun) Richmond Melb 1 1913- 14 Vic Richmond Handicap (May) Richmond Melb 1 1914 NZ Premier Handicap Alex. Park NZ 1 1914-15 NSW Australian TC Hcp (Oct) Victoria Park NSW 1 1916 NZ Ranfurly Handicap Alex. Park NZ 1 1917 NZ Cup Addington NZ 1 A trotting first for BendigoThe First Official Australian Trotting Mile Record set at Bendigo
The first official Australian trotting mile record was achieved at Epsom on 17-09-1858 Trotting Match.—A match came off yesterday afternoon on the Race Course at Epsom, by Mr.Rankin's horse Spider. The match was made in order to test the speed of the horse, who accomplished the first mile in four minutes, and the second in three minutes and twenty-four seconds—a speed which has not ever been equalled on Bendigo. The horse was ridden by Mr. Kettle, the rider of Rambler. From John Peck - Editor, Harness Racing International Magazine, April 2013 Bendigo's blast from the pastBendigo the resting place of our greatest trotter Maoris Idol![]() Maoris Idol rests at Bendigo (read the story - click the photo)
Maoris Idol arguably Australia's greatest trotter, was laid to rest at the Bendigo Harness Racing Club 23 October 2006. The winner of 40 races from 46 starts, Maoris Idol died of old age l at Bill and Margaret Hanson's Homevale Stud at Fern Hill, where the 34-year-old stallion had spent the past 16 years. The Bendigo Harness Racing Club has a memorial by the track entry for the champion and honour his memory every January with the running of the Group 2 Maori Mile at Lord's Raceway. WATCH THE VIDEO
Bendigo's full of Harness Racing History![]() An old barn at at Huntly
Huntly, just north of Bendigo, was once home to some of the best harness racing horses in Australia.
From two stud farms within a half mile of each other came horses that were the stars of trotting and pacing in the early 20th Century. READ MORE......... Gentleman John was a 50's champion![]() Gentleman John
In 1956, locally-owned pacer, Gentleman John, carved his name on the Inter-Dominion roll by winning Sydney's second championship series.
Driven by his trainer, Eric Rothacker, who at 26 was at that time the youngest reinsman to win the race, Gentleman John came off 12 yards and got up in the last stride to score by a head, rating 2:08.8 for 13 1/2 furlongs. The 1956 carnival was marred by atrocious weather conditions which caused four postponements. As a result, the series ran nine days longer than the fortnight originally scheduled. The final, run on a Monday night because of the postponements, drew 34,020 spectators, who cheered the house down as Gentleman John and Mineral Spring fought out a nailbiting finish. LISTEN TO KEN HOWARDS GREAT CALL OF THE RACE Bendigo's trotting history dates back to 1840![]() Horses travelled by train to race in Bendigo
The First Meeting of the Sandhurst Trotting Club
January 24, 1883 Trotting matches between horses were held in the Colony of Victoria as early as the 1840s. Records show trotting matches (usually 2 horses competing against time, over quite long distances) for purses in country areas of Portland, McIvor (Heathcote), Barwon and Maryborough. Trotting matches were held at Sandhurst (Bendigo) in 1858 shortly after the rush to the new goldfields. Newspapers of the time record that pairs of horses raced from Kangaroo Flat to the Black Swan Hotel (still in place on the corner of Pall Mall and Mundy Streets Bendigo, Pall Mall to Inglewood and other venues. However, the meeting on the Epsom Trotting Track where the inaugural race meeting of the Sandhurst Trotting Club was held on January 24, 1883, was the first on a purpose build track - an Australasian first. The mile trotting track was prepared inside the steeplechase track on the Epsom Racecourse, by Mr W.J.Starr who had recently arrived from America. The track consisted of 2 quarter mile ovals at each end, a quarter mile front straight and a quarter mile back stretch. The track was prepared using two specially made implements: a “leveller” and a “Yankee Harrow” each drawn by two draught horses. Trees along the back had to be dug out to enable the track surface to be made. The track was settled by “a shower of rain”. Newspapers reported that about 2000 people attended on a rather warm day. The attendance was lower than expected, although a special train to the Ascot railway siding brought spectators, bookmakers and horses from Melbourne. The appearance of such horses as: Von Moltke Jnr (Imp USA), Contractor (Imp USA), Brown Hawk and Captain Dearborn attracted spectators to the course. The major event for these horses to do the mile in 2:40 to 2:46 did not take place as the connections could not agree whether the horses should be ridden or pull a “carriage”. Instead, they each put on exhibitions of trotting. The winner of the 3:00 minute class was Dick, (by Young Australian) in a time of 2:49. The second heat went to Dick in 2:44. He was sold after this race for £ 250. The Walter Scott stakes for mares was won by Dinah. The prize, was a service to the stallion Walter Scott at Sandhurst for the season. If the race was won in less than 3:10, the service was for up to 6 mares, if slower than 3:10 only one mare. Dinah’s time was 3:20 so the prize was a service to only one mare. The last race was a sweep of Two Pounds ten shillings for local horses over 2 miles. The race was won by Dick under his new ownership. The horses that came on the train from Melbourne were: Von Moltke Jnr USA (Tr 2:3-43), (Von Moltke- Miss Crosby) bh1874. imported in 1879 by C. Colbath. Stood at Fitzroy, Chelsworth, Parkville 1879-1895 Died 1900. Sire of 16 trotters Contractor USA (Tr 2:43), (Green’s Ajax – Lady Godley). bh 1873. Imported in 1881 by J.J.Miller, owner and publisher of Miller’s Guide, still in publication). Stood at Bayswater and Scoresby from 1881- 1888. Died in 1888 Brown Hawk ( Tr 2:45) (Merryhawk USA from unknown dam) g 187- The family to which Brown Hawk belonged was still being bred from in the 1960s . Captain Dearborn (Breeding unknown) References: John Peck: Harness Racing International January/February 2013 Norm West and Noel Ridge from Bendigo Harness Racing Club records |
Seven Bendigo Cups raced before Lord's Raceway![]() By Noel Ridge
THERE WERE SEVEN PREVIOUS BENDIGO CUPS! The 50th Bendigo Pacing Cup was conducted at Lord’s Raceway on Saturday January 11, 2014. All of these fifty races have been run at Lord’s Raceway, with the first taken out in 1965 by Kalama’s Peak, trained and driven by Jack Moore, coming 11 years after the opening meeting at Lord’s Raceway in 1954. However there were seven Bendigo Cups conducted between 1924 and 1932, raced on the grass at the Bendigo Racecourse at Ascot with four of them actually conducted in 1924. The first in 1924 was taken out by Kinnie Bazil, the second by the champion trotter Grand Voyage, and the third by Queen Pirate on October 28, and the fourth in December by Horsham pacer Dummy. The cup race was run again in 1929, when won by First Cast a 10yo gelding by First Voyage . First Voyage was also the sire of Grand Voyage, the champion trotter trained at Huntly and driven by Paddy Glasheen, which won 38 races in Australia and New Zealand mostly against pacers. Princess Mauritus won in 1930, driven by 23yo George Gath and after a further break of one year, the Bendigo Cup was run again ( and for the last time at this track) in 1932. This final edition was won by Le Wilkes owned, trained and driven by A. McPherson, a 12 yo gelding by Le Rosier which had won the Ballarat Cup at the Miner’s Racecourse in Redan in 1930 and 1931. The Bendigo Trotting Club then went into recess, being revived again in the 1950’s prior to the purchase of land at Junortoun and the building of the track and facilities that became Lord’s Raceway. So the question could be asked, do these seven Bendigo Cups conducted in the 1920’s and early 30's count in the total of cups conducted? Was the Bendigo Cup on January 11, 2014 the 50th, or the 57th? The seven winners of the Original Bendigo Cup (raced in the 10 furling grass at Epsom) 1924 (1) Kinnie Bazil, by Bazil B from a Kintore mare 1924 (2) Grand Voyage, by First Voyage from Blonde Grattan 1924 ( 3) Queen Pirate (NZ) by Norminston from Wild Pirate 1924 (4) Dummy, by Grattan Bells from Experience 1929 First Cast, by First Voyage from an Owyhee mare 1930 Princess Mauritius by Direct Mauritius from Belle Patch 1932 Le Wilkes, by Le Rosier from May Wilkes The 1950's
From July 1951 till the opening of the new Club a number of interesting motions were passed. On July 15th 1951 the Bendigo and district Trotting Club was formed with an interim Committee being elected. The first President was Mr Wally Hyett, Mr J S Elliott as Secretary and Mr A E Petherick as Treasurer. These men led the new Club through the early years of the clubs development. November 1951 On Thursday November 8th 1951 the Trotting Control Board granted the Club registration and it expects to race on the Bendigo Racecourse when the Club receives its allocation of racing dates. January 1952 “Trotting Boom” - “No Race Track Retards Local Club’s Progress” This appeared in the Bendigo Advertiser on January 12th 1952. By the 30th of January the Club had been active and the report stated that an area of land was available very close to Bendigo; it was Garden Gully an area that the Council was developing. However, there was opposition from some members of the Council of the time, namely Cr N J Oliver and Cr A J Michelson. Other venues investigated were the new Agricultural Showground’s Site in Holmes Road, the Marong Race Course and The Bendigo Racecourse. On April 19th 1952 it was recorded in the Bendigo Advertiser that the trotting men invited to view the proposed 3 furlong track at the Show grounds, while on May 1st a photograph appeared in the Bendigo Advertiser showing Trotting Control Board Stewards viewing the proposed track and giving it their approval. April 1952 On the 27th April 1952 Mr J Mooring moved and seconded by Mr Friswell, that the Committee adopt a Club constitution. April 1954 Building purchased for 525 Pounds to house the Secretary’s Office, Change room, Stewards room, Casualty room and Committee rooms. April 1954 April 19th 1954 Track to be named “LORD’S RACEWAY”. Constitution approved by the Trotting Control Board. This was unanimously carried. At this same meeting the Committee accepted a loan of 750 pounds from the Trotting Control Board. At the Committee meeting on 5th November 1954 it was moved by Mr Friswell, seconded by Mr J Bourke that 5000 programmes be ordered for the Opening Meeting, from Cambridge Press for 89 Pounds. November 1954 In November a field limit of 20 horses was set, however, this was changed in December 1954 to 25 horses. On the 12th January it was moved by Mr A A Lord to appoint Mr C Pratt as Caretaker of the track, at a salary of 13 pounds a week. In January it was also decided that each member of the Club be asked to contribute Two Guineas towards the new members stand.The 14th February saw the granting permission of the first truck displaying trotting gear for sale on race nights.On the 4th April 1954 it was brought to the attention of the Committee that strange horses were using the track for fast work. It was decided that a charge of 2/- per run per horse would be charged. The Speed Coursing Association requested if it might be possible to lease the Raceway and what might the arrangements be. August 1954 August Annual Meeting 102 Members present. December 1954 Refreshment Tickets to be handed out exclusively by the President March 1955 Commentator to discontinue the practice of naming the winner in close finishes. September 1955 Mr F Collins appointed Timekeeper in place of Mr D Pain. At the Committee Meeting on the first of June the Committee decided to seek permission from the T.C.B. to display the Interdominion Trophies in Bendigo. March 1956 At the Annual Meeting of 1956 it was decided that the fees should remain as for the previous season, viz, 2 pounds 16 shillings plus a Ladies Ticket @ 1 pound 50 shillings plus car fees 1 guinea. April 1956 Resignation of Mr L Jackman as Treasurer and Mr J Hall appointed as Treasurer. September 1956 Photo finish details obtained from T.C.B. October 1956 Mr Palmer appointed Tote Supervisor. October 1957 Mr R Grieve appointed Catcher on probation. May 1957 On 18 May an approach was made to the Club to purchase the 23 acres adjacent to the track. The Committee informed Mr Rice that the Club did not intend to sell at this point in time. Mr Calderwood reported to the Club the issues of taxation and essential matters pertaining to the Club and was requested to redraft the Club’s Constitution. At the Committee Meeting on the 7th October it was moved by Mr T Michell and seconded by Mr Johnson that Mr R Grieve be appointed as Catcher.Mr Redwood moved seconded Mr Michell that free buses are provided for the patrons. On the 20th February Mr Hall resigned as Treasurer and Mr B Jennings was appointed to replace Mr Hall. In April permission was granted for “Walla Lawn” and “Willock” to be paraded at the next race meeting. October 1958 At the Annual Meeting 1958, Mr S Touhey offered financial support for the use of the mobile barrier to be introduced at the Clubs meetings. During the Committee Meeting on the 18th October it was moved by Mr W C Rothacker and seconded by Mr H Redwood that the mobile barrier be used at least once a meeting during the forth coming season. During the Committee Meeting on the 16th March 1959 it was moved by Mr J Bourke and seconded by Mr T Michell that Mr Rushford be appointed Starter April 1959 Catcher endeavours to secure 2 quieter horses June 1959 It was suggested that Business Houses and Trotting enthusiasts be requested to make donations towards the installation of the Photo finish September 1959 No action taken on the Mobile Barrier The 1960's 16th August 1960 Mr Long moved, seconded Mr C Rothacker that the following members Mr A A Lord, Mr H Harrison and Mr J Mooring be awarded Life Membership of the Club at the Annual Meeting. 15th August 1961 Resignation of G P Hyett from the Committee. Mr A L Pearce Appointed to replace G P 19th December 1961 A deputation from the Bendigo Trotting Association re trials: Messrs Mason, Bourke and Pascoe represented the Association and placed before the meeting thoughts as to the necessity for continuance of and necessity for holding trials at the Raceway in preference to outside courses. 5th February 1963 F B Jennings appointed Secretary of the Bendigo and District Trotting Club. Miss V Gillies was appointed to the position of Hon. Treasurer of the Club. 27th March 1963 Mr J T Langdon appointed to the Committee to fill the vacancy occasioned by the death of Mr J W Mooring. 28th August 1963 At the Annual Meeting Guest Speaker; The Chairman of the Trotting Control Board the Hon. R T White 11th October 1963 Training Fees: Moved A A Lord, seconded Mr E Pocock the Secretary to be empowered to contact trainers who have not paid their training fees, and they be reported to the Trotting Control Board as defaulters. 22nd January 1964 Plans in place to entertain the Interdominion visitors. 10th July 1964 Mr T Michell resigns. 20th July 1964 A Letter dated 8th July 1964 from Mr A.A. Lord re interest free loan. Matter left in the hands of the Secretary. 3rd September 1964 Mr Neil Gillies suggested to the in coming Committee that the Club hold a Cup meeting. 16th February 1965 Moved Mr J P Bourke, second Mr Gillies that Mr A A Lord be informed that his position on the Committee has lapsed. 26th September 1965 Application from Bill Collins for the position of Course Broadcaster. Application from Bruce Skeggs for the position of Course Broadcaster. Bruce Skeggs appointed. 8th December 1965 Resignation of Mr H Harrison from Committee. 9th March 1966 Wash: It was decided to install an electric light in the horse wash. Mr Ray Heath elected to Committee, replacing Mr Harrison. 3rd May 1966 The Trotting Control Board requested the Club consider holding Saturday night meetings in the August – October period. The Club rejected the request owing to the climatic conditions were not favourable, and suggested Clubs such as Nyah and Mildura might be more suitable. 28th December 1966 First night trials conducted by the Club. 15th June 1967 First discussion of a Master Plan of the property introduced by Mr G Symons. 9th April 1968 Recognition of D Dove driving five winners. G Symons and G Pascoe moved and seconded, that a suitably inscribed trophy to the value of $10 be presented to Mr Dove. 28th January 1969 Meeting in the Presidents Room to form an Owners, Trainers and Drivers Association. February 1969 A match race was proposed between Adaptor and Golden Alley, each horse to receive $500 appearance money and the winner to receive $500. 20th March 1969 Match Race: As Adaptor had been sold to American interest the match race was not possible. Dale Symons granted permission to call some races on trial nights. 13 October 1969 It was decided to hold a Pacing Cup in January 1970. 27th November 1969 The Chairman (Mr J P Bourke) referred to the accident that happened to the President Mr V J Rothacker, and all present extended their wishes for a speedy recovery. The 1970's 14th October 1971 Conversion to the Metric System. October 1971 Transfer of freehold land to the crown. Mr C Pratt wanted to finish up as caretaker at the end of the year. November 1971 L Hynam appointed caretaker. February 1972 Club entitled to $65,000 over five years from Racecourse Development Fund. April 1972 Death of Foundation member of the Club Mr Harry Harrison. May 1972 434 people petitioned the Chief Secretary to keep the TAB opened on a Tuesday. June 1972 Representatives of the Coursing Association meet with Trotting Club to discuss aspects of the proposed move. Death of George Coulson a voluntary worker at the Club since its inception. August 1972 White ants infested the Tote building. December 1972 Mrs Coulson requested that she be permitted to donate an Honour Board to the Club in memory of her late husband. January 1973 Secretary presented preliminary drawings for improvements to the raceway. Trials to be held five days prior to each meeting. March 1973 Land to be transferred to Crown. April 1973 Club to continue negotiations re purchase land adjacent to the Club. $10, 000 Meeting, the Club to provide extra advertising and to decorate the stall to be occupied by “Gentleman John”, Interdominion Champion. July 1973 Mr Geoff O’Brien appointed Course Broadcaster October 1973 $80.000 per annum for five years, to be available for the Trotting and Greyhound Development funds for improvements to the Raceway. Mr R G Redwood resigns from the Committee. The Mobile barrier to be introduced at two meetings before the end of the season. November 1973 Mr Bernie Ahern elected to the Committee May 1974 Mr R Heavyside proposed to be made a Life Member of the Club. July 1974 Mr J P Bourke and Mr R M Heavyside were made Life Members of the Club. August 1974 Resignations of Mr W C Rothacker and Mr A A Rothacker from Committee. September 1974 Resignation of Mr B A’Hern from Committee. January 1975 Mr A Wignall approached to act as Course Farrier. May 1975 Mobile Barrier: Arising out of mishaps at the last meeting, it was resolved that in future Mobile Barrier events be held from the 2200 metres start only. June 1975 Mr Ray Heath appointed to the Trotting Control Board. Russell Swainston appointed Assistant Judge. July 1975 Mr J E Doolan resigned as Assistant Judge. August 1975 Death of Mr J Elliot initial Secretary of Bendigo Trotting Club. September 1975 Mr A Burrows appointed to replace Mr H O’Shea. February 1976 John Lane the photo finish operator was the busiest man on the course when the judge called for 5 photos on the 8-race programme. March 1976 Resignation of Mr G McKenzie as Judge and Mr R Swainston appointed as Judge and Mr Peter Stewart appointed as Assistant Judge. June 1976 Trials: That a fee for night trials be $2 per horse from the first of July 1976. July 1976 Development of the west side and a request to be made to obtain sufficient funds to prepare the new site for the future building programme. August 1976 Mr R Heath spoke of the proposed move to Moonee Valley by the Trotting Control Board. March 1977 Bendigo Trots held at Shepparton. August 1977 Opening meeting on the new track (three horses fell) October 1977 Track Records crash. Six Track Records were smashed November 1977 Director of Youth, Sport and Recreation, Mr Bert Keddie opened the initial stage of the Multi-Million Dollar improvement plan. August 1978 Reinswomen crack the ice at Raceway when Mrs D’arne Bellman finished third driving “Queenly Chief” racing against the men. The 1980's August 1981 Twilight move a winner. Patrons support the early start. September 1982 Opening of the $2M complex by Mr Neil Tresize Minister for Youth, Sport and Recreation. June 1984 Judges stood down for a mistake in the placing’s. Mr L F Chalkley and Mr A S Rutland took over their positions for the rest of the meeting. February 1985 Club President, Mr Bernie Masterson not happy with the deal from the HRB. He said “It causes our Club extreme difficulties when we have to race on the night before or after Moonee Valley”. September 1985 Annual Meeting Guest Speaker: Mr Jim Wong. April 1986 Officials acclaim the new Mobile start. August 1986 Hot competition for Committee jobs. 18th February 1987 Financial: The Treasurer reported that the number of paying customers showed a decline. May 1987 Junior membership: It was resolved that at The Annual Meeting the constitution be amended to accept Junior Members. Applicants under 21 years of age. Fees to be $20. Harness Racing Training/Drivers Course: The Bendigo College of Tafe confirm that a meeting to discuss the conduct of a Harness Racing Training/Drivers Course would be held on Wednesday May 6th, 1987. June 1987 June 17th Trainers and Drivers School Complex. The HRB be informed of the participation of the Bendigo Harness Racing Club in the formation of such a scheme. December 1987 December 15th Drivers/Stewards Building Complex A meeting of the sub committee to be convened in January 1988 for the purpose of discussing the implementation of this project. January 1988 January 20th 1988 Starter Mr Keith Stemmer is recommended to the board as a suitable person to hold such a licence. March 1988 16th March 1988 Harness Racing Board suggested that the future Wednesday meetings be held as twilight meetings with the first race starting between 4pm - 5pm. April 1988 20th April 1988 A talk given by Dr Tony Britt outlining the submission that T.V. coverage on the Friday circuit between the hours 5pm – 9pm. It was moved by Mr Masterson and Mr J Maher that the club accept the offer of the Board to conduct Friday twilight meetings on Sky Channel. June1988 June 1988 Standing orders were suspended and the President Mr L F Chalkley allowed a task force from The Harness Racing Board who were investigating the Club’s reason for resigning from the Country Clubs Association. July 1988 July 20th 1988 Sebastian Light Harness Club seeking permission to hold two restricted meetings at the course. Both Mr K S Mitchell and Mr Ron Oliver complained about the decision to hold twilight meetings. Replies sent. August 12th 1988 Caravan for Lady Drivers. Building sub-committee go into the matter of purchasing a caravan for this purpose. 14th September 1988 Grounds and buildings: Horse urinal doors completed much to the relief of the horses, Caravan for Lady Drivers to be sited and the annex to be offered for sale to the original owner. Ovtober 1988 October 19th 1988 A Caravan for Ladies change room put in place in the horse area. December 1988 Mr Wal Churchill to act as Father Christmas. February 1989 Tafe Course: 15th February The Minister Mr E Walker will officially declare this course open at a breakfast on the 17th 1989. May 1989 May 31st The meeting started with all members standing in silence for 60 seconds as a mark of respect for the passing of Brian Jennings. Replacement of the Secretary: A discussion took place on the appointment of a Secretary. June 1989 23rd June - 23 Applications for the position of Secretary. July 1989 6th July - Three people recommended for consideration for the position of Secretary. Mr Ken Yates offered and accepts the position of Secretary of the Bendigo Harness Racing Club. September 1989 13th September - Annual Meeting Guest Speaker: Mr Rod Osborne (Chairman of Stewards) December 1989 13th December Ken Pocock approached to have “Game Oro” lead the Cup field out on Cup night. The 1990's January 1990 17th January A letter be forwarded to Ted Zimmer for his services to the Club. July 1990 18th July, Moved for Mr L Chalkley to be awarded Life Membership at the Annual Meeting. Mr K Matthews also be granted Life Membership. August 1990 15th August Renewal of acquaintances with the Bendigo Jockey Club. Moved that Les Pascoe be awarded Life Membership at this Years Annual Meeting. October 1990 Annual Meeting 24th October Guest Speaker: Mr Tim Walsh Chairman of the Harness Racing Board spoke of the challenges the Industry is facing. Training Centre Barn: The Barn had been designed and that a registration of interest for tenders had been called for. December 1990 Gold Nugget Series: It was decided to approach Ballarat and Maryborough in conducting a Gold Nugget Series. January 1991 Plans were tabled for a Public Restaurant to be established in the Grandstand. February 1991 John Randles named Harness Racing Personality of the year. July 1991 Graham Maher given permission to develop a track conditioner for the Club. October Annual Meeting Guest Speaker: Mr David Martyn, Marketing Manager of the Harness Racing Board Mr Martyn spoke on the issues regarding marketing principles and strategies. Merna Graham elected to the Committee. March 1992 Establishment of a Museum at the Club. Formation of a sub-committee to investigate. July 1992 Jim Rilen and J Grenfell interested in learning the duties of a Club Steward Costing of the reconstruction of the track. September 1992 Mr Peter Svanosio awarded Life Membership. October 1992 Annual Meeting Guest Speaker: Mr Matt Donaldson of Charlton. He spoke on his recent trip to compete in The World Cup Amateur Driving Championship in Paris March 1993 Proposal for a Museum/Theme Park for the Complex. May 1993 Visit of Mr Tom Reynolds, Minister for Sport and Recreation. Introduction of the concept of a perpetual Rothacker Trotters Classic. August 1993 Contact had been made with Harold Park re-the consultant Daniel Coon. The running of the K Pocock Memorial Race, Mrs Daphne Pocock to provide the Trophy September 1993 Visit by H.R.B. Chairman Mr Ian McEwan Mr Stan Rutland awarded Life Membership at Annual Meeting. Annual Meeting Guest Speaker: Mr Duncan McPherson Country Clubs Manager. Mr McPherson spoke on the long term strategic planning of the H.R.B. January 1994 Volunteer workers to wear identification outfits. February 1994 Visit by Vic Safe Consultant Visit by Daniel Coon to conduct a feasibility study of track. April 1994 Daniel Coon provided 3 options to the Club, A, B and C. The Club opted for Option B. October 1994 Keith Bibby presented with a plaque and set of glasses for his services to the Club over many years. Annual Meeting Guest Speaker- Mr Alan Galloway of Alabar Farms. Mr Alan Galloway spoke of the development of Alabar Farms. May 1995 Bruce Morgan and Len Maher nominated for Life Memberships. June 1995 Bill and Margaret Hanson nominated for Life Memberships. July 1995 Life Member and Past President Jim Bourke passed away. Retirement of L Chalkley as a Committee Member. August 1995 Barry Edwards appointed to the casual vacancy on the Committee At the Annual Meeting Life Memberships were awarded to the following: Margaret and Bill Hanson, Bruce Morgan and Len Maher. Guest Speaker: Mr Kevin Newbound, President of the Studmasters Association spoke on the issues affecting the Breeding industry. May 1995 “Club 100” sponsorship commenced April 1996 Paul Graydon appointed to co-ordinate the Horse Sale on the 28th April. Internet – Mr Bruce Winzar to set up the Internet System. 1997 P Banks appointed Bendigo Harness Racing Club Secretary August 1997 First Breeders Crown Series started. Finals at Bendigo. 1998 M.Hockley replaces P Banks as Bendigo Harness Racing Club Secretary October 1998 Tony Britt elected president BHRC Committee. Barry Edwards replaces M Hockley as Bendigo Harness Racing Club Secretary/Manager The 2000's June 2000 Volunteers/staff to be paid appropriate award rates for work hours September 2000 Eric Rothacker to be Guest Speaker at the Annual Meeting. October 2000 Resignation of Dennis Bice from Committee. Paul Morrissey invited to fill the Committee vacancy. November 2000 Money available for the construction of a lift to the first floor. March 2001 Goldwood Park Sprint Lane established. July 2001 “Maoris Idol” monument to be placed inside archway gate. At the Annual Meeting Guest Speaker: Mr Terry Bailey chief steward. August 2001 Presentation to Kerryn Gath for her record success this season. K. Matthews and L Pascoe nominated for Legends/Distinguished Service. Volunteer awards (Certificate of Appreciation). The following were nominated: Ladies Committee, Mavis Collinson, Trial volunteers, Executive OTDA, Len Maher and Graeme Maher. November 2001 Legends Club Les Pascoe and Kevin Matthews have been admitted to the Legends Club. Angled Mobile Barrier – Advise the HRV that the angled barrier is not successful in its present form. December 2001 Native Title Claim: A claim made on the land BHRC operate on. October 2002 Bruce Winzar elected President of the BHRC Committee May 2003 Bush rose and plaque to be placed in garden near HRTC Office in memory of Don Herbert. August 2004 Most successful Breeders Crown Meeting in August Commenced planing for the new Thousand metre race track October 2007 Dennis Bice elected to President of the BHRC Committee August 2008 Last Breeders Crown Series Final raced at Bendigo with the Finals transferred to HRV headquarters and the new track at Melton The 2010's August 2010 Executive Committee starts national search for a new local harness racing boss, experienced racing administrator David Aldred is appointed to position of General Manager/ CEO - Bendigo Harness Racing Club Inc. September 2010 David Aldred, who had been previously the Chief Executive Officer for Harness Racing SA, takes up the General Manager appointment replacing former Committeeman and Club manager Barry Edwards. October 2010 James Hitchcock (HRV CHairman of Stewards) and David Aldred (GM BHRC) guest speakers at annual general meeting. President Dennis Bice announces, following an election for Committee vacancy, Joe Page elected to replace Paul Graydon on BHRC Committee November 2010 David Aldred signs PETstock to a three year partnership to sponsor the Bendigo Pacing Cup January 2011 Miracle Mile winner and Australasia's fastest pacer, Smoken Up (Lance Justice) wins the 2011 PETstock Bendigo Cup, Smoken Up went on to win the Inter Dominion Championship Final in Auckland two months later February 2011 Maori Mile winners names 2010 (Acacia Ridge) 2011 (Ronerail) names engraved on plaques on Maori's Idol Monument March 2011 The Dick Howarth trained, Greg Sugars reined, Airzone sets a new best mile for Bendigo pacing a 1:54.2 MR. April 2011 Archway at entry to Lord's Raceway demolished by Vic Roads to make way for new McIvor Highway and Atlas Road intersection, The entry to Lord's Raceway is to be widened with traffic lights installed for the safe crossing of horses and pedestrians at the intersection. Work also commences on new light dimming technology at Lords Raceway. The dimming technology first installed at the Melton track will provide substantial power savings when completed May 2011 30 May, Harness Racing stalwart, trainer/driver Merv Dillon (committeeman 1985 - 1998) passes. June 2011 3 June - Huge crowd packs out Napier Park Chapel to overflowing to farewell Merv Dillion. Dillon's son Tony trained a Merv Dillon owned winner at Tabcorp Park on the night of the funeral, closing a memorable chapter in local racing history. 11 June 2011 - Personal Digital TVs installed on window dining tables at Lord's Raceway. TV's provided patrons with abilty to watch all Sky Racing, Sport including football, and Digital TV stations at their own table. GM David Aldred introduced the idea and the TV's, sponsored by the BHRC Ladies Committee, were a big hiot with racegoers. 50/50 fundraising commenced to raise money towards a roof over the stables at Lord's Raceway. The first 50/50 venture raised $400. 18 June 2011 - The Race For Fun Club was launched in the Bendigo Advertiser. The Advertiser will race a rising 2yo filly by Lombo Pocket Watch with the Bendigo Community as Race For Fun Club Members. All prizemoney won by the fully sponsored filly is to be donated to Charity. January 2012 - Ballarat CEO and trainer Paul Rowse wins the Bendigo Pacing Cup with Decorated Jasper. Bendigo Harness Racing Club stages successful promotion with Win a Trip for Two to Paris Competition. The prize attracts modern day record crowd and stuimulates activity and betting turnover on track at Lord's Raceway. July 2012 - Bendigo Harness Racing Club announces celebrations of history at Lord's Raceway with the running of the Anniversary Cup on 3 November 2012 and the opening of a Race For Fun Club Historical Library and Royal Gaze 'Local Hero' wall of memory at the track. The Anniversary Cup race night will also feature a Monte (ridden Trot) race and a Veteran Drivers Challenge with current and past master reinsman competing in a feature TAB race. August 2012 - State Coalition Government announces its support for the Anniversary Cup and historical celebrations at Lord's Raceway. August 2012- Race for Fun Club filly Spirit Of Bendigo makes her race debut at Lord's Raceway Bendigo, finishing 7th. 3rd November 2012 - The BHRC celebrates a huge birthday of harness racing at Lord's Raceway - It's 58th year with assistance from the state government Race Day Attraction program Funding. The Anniversary Pacing Cup day proves to be the most successful outside of the Bendigo Pacing Cup. The race meeting featured a Veteran Drivers Race won by local harness racing identity Keith Pratt. 26 November 2012 - The BHRC membership recieved the Club's 58th Annual Report. Dennis Bice elected for another term as president of the Bendigo Harness Racing Club. Darren McPhail and James Masters elected as the Club's vice presidents. 12 January 2013 - Sushi Sushi a son of Art Major defies a Kiwi raid to win the 2013 PETstock Bendigo Pacing Cup at Lord's Raceway. Driven by Greg Sugars, the Freddy taiba trained Sushi Sushi beat New Zealders Mah Sish and Auckland Reactor in a tight three way finish. A big crowd attended the Cup with a lure of a trip for two to Hong Kong as the lucky gate prize. 15 October 2013 - Bendigo Harness Racing Club partner with Bendigo Beer to hold the 1st Oktoberfest, beer festival at Lord's Raceway. More than 2000 attend this event. 12 January 2014 - Im Corzin Terror wins the 50th running of the Gr2 Petstock Bendigo Cup for Dean Braun and Chris Alford. The Club stages big on course promotions to attract a diverse crowd. 20 June 2014 - Club Chief Executive Officer David Aldred resigns his position to take up a new industry role in Queensland. Aldred appointed to position of GM Racing Operations for Harness Racing with Racing Queensland. He departs the BHRC on 31 July 2014. |