One of Australia's most celebrated horse racing dynasties has suffered a devastating blow after bushfires tore through their renowned training facility in Victoria.
A Heartbreaking Loss for Racing Royalty
The Hayes family delivered tragic news on Sunday, confirming that seven of their racehorses have died following a fierce bushfire that engulfed their Lindsay Park stables, located south of Euroa. The family stated that among the deceased were five spelling racehorses and two retirees.
In a statement issued via Facebook, the family said: "Now that all horses on the property have been accounted for and assessed, Lindsay Park can confirm that seven horses have tragically been lost from injuries sustained in the fire." They added that one additional horse remains in a critical condition and is receiving intensive veterinary care.
Heroic Efforts Amidst 'Incredibly Dynamic' Blaze
The fire, which ignited in Longwood just east of the stables, swept through the property on Friday as temperatures in Victoria soared into the mid-to-high 40s Celsius. Hopetoun Airport recorded a scorching 46ºC. State Premier Jacinta Allen described it as 'one of the most dangerous fire days that this state has experienced in years.'
Victoria's state control centre reported the Longwood fire was 'incredibly dynamic' and had spread in multiple directions, destroying multiple homes, a community centre, and a telephone exchange.
In a testament to swift action, the family confirmed that 320 horses were saved due to the 'combined efforts of our staff and the CFA' (Country Fire Authority). Hall of Fame trainer David Hayes rushed home from Hong Kong to assist his sons Ben, Will, and JD in protecting the property.
"Every possible measure was taken to protect all the horses and the property under extremely difficult and rapidly changing conditions," the family's statement emphasised. "The priority throughout the event remained the safety of people and horses."
Racing Community Rallies in Support
Racing Victoria immediately extended its sympathies, stating: "Our thoughts are with the owners, the Hayes family, the Lindsay Park team, and all those affected by this tragic event... We recognise the profound emotional toll such circumstances place on the people who look after these horses every day."
The Hayes family expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support from the racing community. This included practical aid such as Inglis housing 128 of their horses and many offering homes to displaced staff.
The family paid heartfelt thanks, saying: "We would like to acknowledge and thank the CFA and emergency services for their support, as well as our staff for their commitment and courage during this event."
The tragedy coincided with Racing Victoria deferring a Friday meeting in Werribee until Monday due to the extreme heat. The Country Fire Authority has since declared a total fire ban for north-east and north-central Victoria.
David Hayes, a legend in the sport with 95 Group One wins and inducted into the Australian Racing Hall of Fame in 2008, now faces the arduous task of rebuilding alongside his sons, who manage the Lindsay Park estate.
