Retired jockey Damian Browne enjoying life at Sunshine Coast Turf Club

A 16-time Group 1-winning jockey has found a way to remain in the racing industry, offering guidance, tips and well-warranted advice to the next generation of emerging stars.

Former superstar jockey Damian Browne at the Sunshine Coast Turf Club. Picture: Racing Queensland

Multiple Group 1-winning jockey Damian Browne has found a way to remain at the races, working as a trackwork supervisor and offering key advice to rising hoops at the Sunshine Coast Turf Club.

The father of two said he wasn’t sure what he wanted to do after announcing his retirement in 2019, but was grateful when offered a full-time position at Corbould Park in 2021.

Situated in “The Hut” near the 1800m shoot, Browne took over from the late Reg Huxham where his job is to ensure all horses, jockeys and stable staff are safe and accounted for each morning.

“I filled in over at the pool and bull ring one morning for one of the guys who was on holidays and then when Reg passed Murray (Weeding) asked me to take on his role,” Browne said.

Damian Browne receiving a guard of honour by fellow jockeys. Picture: Trackside Photography

“I’m on track from 4am, marking down all of the horses as they’re going out and keeping an eye on things from a safety perspective so if someone has a fall, is having trouble with their horse or their horse needs some assistance, I go and help where I can.

“When I retired I felt I was missing that love for the horses as that’s what got me into the industry those 40-odd years ago so being back around them is something I really enjoy but also mixing with the never-ending characters and stories of racing makes the mornings fun as well.”

Former superstar jockey Damian Browne at the Sunshine Coast Turf Club. Picture: Racing Queensland

The 51-year-old New Zealand-born star also offers his tips and knowledge to fresh-faced riders.

“I’m there watching them every morning so if I can give them a few pointers I will,” he said.

“If I see them having difficulties with a horse, I can offer my input in adjusting their technique or something that might help them progress and get some added confidence.

“Obviously some listen and some don’t, you can tell pretty quickly which ones take it on board but I’m always willing to give my time to those that want it and come to me asking questions on how they can improve.”

Browne said despite not having any apprentices move through the grades as yet, he had a keen eye on rising star Leah Martyn.

“I do really enjoy working with the current younger crop because you can start from the basics and help them set a really solid platform to build off,” he said.

Jockey Damian Browne gestures after a victory aboard Impending in 2018. Picture: AAP

“I like working with all of the jockeys around here, a lot of them probably never saw me ride but for them to take the time to listen to me and actively try to progress is cool to see and be a part of.

“Leah Martyn, who is Garnett Taylor’s apprentice, has only been to the races once where she suffered a broken leg and she’s had a neck injury since then too which is unfortunate but she’s one that was really starting to get going.”

Browne said he was proud to be a part of the booming Sunshine Coast Turf Club.

“I’ve been pretty passionate about Corbould Park for many years, even when I was riding I always tried to get back here for the Sunday meetings,” he said.

“It’s really great to see it all growing even more in the last few years so it’s a club on its way up and it’s great to be a part of it.”