Marnie Kelly dead after life support turned off following shock farm seizure

A beloved horse racing identity who was a key player in the success of Black Caviar has died following a tragic incident in Gympie.

Marnie Kelly and longtime partner and horse trainer Tony Haydon, who both played a role in training and caring for legendary Australian racehorse Black Caviar. Picture: Haydon Racing.

Tributes have flooded social media following the devastating death of Marnie Kelly, beloved partner of Gympie horse trainer Tony Hayden and key player in the success of Black Caviar.

Marnie died on May 16, when her life support at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital was turned off following a massive heart attack and seizure at the couple’s Gympie property on Monday, May 12.

A Gofundme for the family launched by Mr Haydon’s sister Mel, said Marnie was found unresponsive at the property.

Marnie Kelly was a beloved member of Queensland’s horse racing community and long-term partner of Gympie trainer Tony Haydon. Picture: Haydon Racing.

She was rushed to Gympie Hospital and then the Sunshine Coast University Hospital, where she remained on life support until it became apparent there was no oxygen reaching her brain.

Four days after her admission into hospital, devastating news was shared on the campaign page.

“Unfortunately scans yesterday have revealed there is no oxygen getting to Marnie’s brain,” it said.

“A decision has been made to turn her life support off this afternoon or tomorrow to allow Tony and Marnie’s family time to say goodbye.

“It is with absolute heartbreak that we are now raising money to cover funeral and upcoming expenses for the near future.”

Racing Queensland posted in a 2023 article on Mr Haydon and Marnie: “Haydon and his partner of 20 years Marnie Kelly were part of the Black Caviar success story which saw the champion mare win 15 Group 1s in her unbeaten 25 start career”.

Marnie and Tony Haydon were part of the success of Australian champion thoroughbred racehorse Black Caviar, who went undefeated in 25 races, including 15 Group Ones. Picture: Vince Caligiuri.

Mr Haydon was Black Caviar’s strapper and stable attendant when she raced in Ascot, England in 2012, and he worked with trainer Peter Moody for many years.

Mr Moody’s wife Sarah donated $5000 to Marnie’s Gofundme campaign, which had raised almost $23,000 by Monday afternoon.

The campaign was launched after Marnie was admitted to hospital, but before her death.

“Tony and Marnie are the best and I’m sure everyone agrees, you (won’t) meet two other people who are good, just plain good, and are the definition of hard working,” Mel posted on the campaign page.

The Marnie Kelly Gofundme campaign had raised nearly $23,000 by Monday afternoon with 90 donations, far exceeding its $16,000 target. Picture: Gofundme.

“Our lives were blessed when Marnie and Tony (became) partners and by partners they are perfect partners at home where Tony thinks he is the boss, and partners at work where Tony is not the boss, with Marnie right beside him, helping ensure everything is done to perfection.

“Marnie is the most beautiful person inside and out, those who know her fall in love with her straight away. I know I did, she is amazing.

Marnie Kelly and horse

On Friday morning, Haydon Racing shared the devastating news of Marnie’s death:

“Today is an (extremely) sad day, as we have had to say bye to beautiful Marnie Kelly this morning as she passed away peacefully with Tony and family by her side.

“Marnie was the most amazing and giving person who has touch(ed) so many of our lives, she will be forever missed. Thank-you everyone for your love and support through this difficult time,” Haydon Racing said.

Marnie and long-time partner Tony worked together at Haydon Racing for years.

Marci Sheridan, a friend of Marnie’s, also posted a moving tribute on Facebook.

“Such a beauty,” she said.

“She was truly amazing. Can’t believe I won’t see her again. We will miss her spunky personality.

“Always in trouble but not hurting anyone. Wouldn't change a thing.

“The most beautiful, genuine person I ever had the pleasure of meeting,” another said.

Marnie Kelly (bottom left) dressed up for race day. Picture: Haydon Racing.

Townsville-based training stable JLH Racing posted to Mr Haydon: “Marnie was a truly amazing woman who loved her animals, sport and horses, but especially loved you and was by your side for so many pinnacles of your life.

“Marnie — know you will be cheering for the Roosters & Swans from up there,” they said.

Mel has encouraged anyone who wishes to financially support Mr Haydon during this time to donate on her Gofundme campaign.

Originally published as Marnie Kelly dead after life support turned off following shock farm seizure