Stablehand Fiona Ralph dies from head injuries sustained in freak accident at Bendigo races

The Bendigo racing community is in mourning after a stablehand died from head injuries sustained in a freak accident at a recent race meeting.

The Victorian racing industry is morning the death of stablehand Fiona Ralph following an accident at a race meeting at Bendigo last Tuesday. Picture: Supplied

The Bendigo racing community was left shocked after a stablehand died following a freak accident at a race meeting last Tuesday.

Racing Victoria and the Bendigo Jockey Club confirmed Fiona Ralph passed away in the Royal Melbourne Hospital over the weeks from head injuries sustained in the incident.

It is believed Ms Ralph fell, hitting her head, in the tie-up stalls at the Bendigo Racecourse while working for trainer Toby Lake.

On-course medics tended to Ms Ralph but her condition subsequently deteriorated, such that she was flown to the Royal Melbourne Hospital for emergency surgery.

Sadly, the 58-year-old was unable to be saved.

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“We are shocked and saddened at the news of Fiona’s passing after what appears to be a tragic accident on race day at Bendigo,” RV chief executive Aaron Morrison said.

“On behalf of all within the Victorian racing industry, I would like to extend our prayers and heartfelt condolences to Fiona’s family and friends at this incredibly tough time.

“Our thoughts are also with trainer Toby Lake and his staff, along with the team at the Bendigo Jockey Club who are equally shocked at Fiona’s passing.

“In this tough time, her family have taken comfort knowing that she got to spend her last day watching two of her favourite racehorses at the track.

“The racing community is a big family who share a common love of the horse and I know that this sad news will be felt by all, regardless of whether they knew Fiona.”

Vale Fiona Ralph 🕊️

It is with great sadness that Racing Victoria and the Bendigo Jockey Club acknowledge the passing of registered stablehand Fiona Ralph.

Read more: https://t.co/4iBs6UK8JVpic.twitter.com/2QnJsqndBo

— Racing Victoria (@RacingVictoria) May 12, 2025

Racing Victoria’s support teams have worked to assist Ms Ralph’s family and workmates at Toby Lake Racing to process the tragedy.

Originally published as Stablehand Fiona Ralph dies from head injuries sustained in freak accident at Bendigo races