Tuesday, 1 March 2005: The Australian Jockeys’ Association is set to unveil Australia’s first memorial for fallen jockeys at Caulfield Racecourse on 5 March, as part of National Jockey Celebration Day.
The memorial, named “Fallen Jockeys,” honours the 298 jockeys who have died in riding accidents during the last 157 years (1847 to 2004).
AJA’s honorary secretary, Ned Wallish, began developing the project more than 20 years ago.
“I was inspired by a special memorial honouring thousands of Australians who died fighting in France during the First World War,” said Mr Wallish.
“The primary move to establish the memorial came from the AJA and was understandably supported by the relatives of fallen jockeys.
“Associate arms of Victoria’s racing industry have contributed to the project, as have many from other states, including jockeys’ associations, the Australian Jockey Club and the Sydney Turf Club,” Mr Wallish said.
The $100,000 memorial features a bronze sculpture of legendary jockey, Hughie Cairns, who died from a race fall in the 1920s.
Sculptor, Jennifer Mann, took five months to create the monument.
National Jockey Celebration Day is now a permanent feature on the racing calendar and celebrates the achievements of all Australian jockeys.
Now in its second consecutive year, the event also pays tribute to Australian jockeys who have died in riding accidents.
National Jockey Celebration Day is one of the key fundraising events for the National Jockeys’ Trust, which provides financial relief for jockeys and their families in the event of injury, illness or death.
Victorian Racing Minister, the Hon John Pandazopolous, will unveil “Fallen Jockeys” prior to the first race at the Futurity Stakes meeting at Classic Caulfield.
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