Victorian Racing Community Mourns the Loss of Bernadette Payne

Image credits: Credit: Neil Newitt

The Victorian racing community is in mourning after the death of Bernadette Payne, a former jockey and sister of Melbourne Cup winner Michelle Payne. Bernadette, who was 51 years old, passed away on Tuesday, according to a statement from her family. The Payne family, who are well-known in the Victorian racing industry, have asked for their privacy to be respected at this time. Bernadette was one of 10 children raised by their single father, Paddy Payne snr, after their mother, Mary, died in a car accident in 1986.

Bernadette grew up around horses and became a jockey, riding her first winner at Nhill in 1993. She went on to secure 188 victories during her racing career before retiring in 2009. Bernadette's passing has sent shockwaves through the racing community, with many paying tribute to her memory. The Australian Jockey's Association has issued a statement expressing their condolences to the Payne family, describing Bernadette as a "beautiful lady" who was "loved and respected by so many". Bernadette's sister, Michelle, has previously spoken about the important role Bernadette played in her life, particularly after their mother's death. Michelle has said that Bernadette, who was just 11 years old at the time, would often get up in the middle of the night to feed her and care for her, before falling asleep in school.

The racing community has come together to support the Payne family during this difficult time. Bernadette's death is the second tragedy to affect the family, following the death of her sister Brigid in 2007. Brigid, who was 36 years old at the time, died from a heart attack six months after a bad track work fall. The Payne family has asked that their privacy be respected as they grieve the loss of Bernadette. The family has also expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support they have received from the community. Bernadette's legacy will live on through her family and the many people she touched throughout her life. Her love of horses and her dedication to the racing industry will be remembered for years to come.

Here are some of Bernadette's notable achievements:

• Rode her first winner at Nhill in 1993
• Secured 188 victories during her racing career
• Retired from racing in 2009

The racing community will continue to mourn the loss of Bernadette Payne, a talented jockey and beloved member of the Payne family. Her memory will be honored through the many tributes and condolences that have been expressed by those who knew her.

The Payne family's statement, which was released on Monday night, expressed their deep sadness at Bernadette's passing. The statement read: "It is with deep sadness that we confirm that Bernadette has passed away. She had a very difficult and challenging time in recent years, and we find solace in the hope that she is now at peace. She was loved by many throughout her life. We ask that our family's privacy is respected at this time. Thank you." The family's request for privacy has been respected by the racing community, who have instead focused on paying tribute to Bernadette's memory and offering their condolences to the Payne family.

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