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It is with sadness that Racing Victoria (RV) and the Australian Trainers Association (ATA) acknowledge the passing of former licensed trainer Russell Cameron.
Russell, 61, passed away today after a battle with illness and is survived by his wife Judy and sons Sean and Scott, the latter who is continuing the family legacy as a licensed Victorian trainer.
A third-generation trainer, Russell was first licensed to train in South Australia in 1989 and went on to enjoy successful training stints in Victoria, New Zealand and Macau.
Russell trained in his own right at Flemington until June 2017 when he entered into a training partnership with Scott. He relinquished his licence last season due to ill health.
Russell trained over 600 winners in Australia that amassed close to $20 million in prizemoney. Among his best performed horses were Group 1 winners Toledo, Bomber Bill, All Time High and St Clemens Belle, along with Adelaide Cup winner Apache King and Flemington 1200-metre track record holder Iglesia.
RV Chief Executive, Giles Thompson, said: "On behalf of the Victorian racing industry, I would like to extend our prayers and heartfelt condolences to Russell's family and friends following the sad news of his passing after a battle with illness.
"Russell was a highly respected and valued member of the Victorian racing industry who enjoyed great success here and abroad. He will be sadly missed by many, particularly those who worked closely with him at Flemington where his son Scott is carrying on the family's training legacy."
ATA Chief Executive, Andrew Nicholl, said: "All within the training community are saddened by the loss of Russell Cameron, who was a great friend and respected peer of so many.
"Russell was an astute horseman who presented his horses in great order and was known for his ability to execute a plunge on favoured stable runners.
"On behalf of the ATA committee and members, I want to extend our sincere condolences to Judy and the family on their loss. Russell was a great bloke who will be sadly missed."
The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) have announced that a race will be named in Russell's honour at its Flemington feature meeting this Saturday, 14 September.