Seven racehorses have died and another is in critical condition after a bushfire tore through the Hayes family’s Lindsay Park property near Euroa in Victoria.
In a joint statement issued on Sunday, brothers Ben, Will and JD announced the devastating news that five spelling racehorses and two retired horses had died from injuries sustained during the fire, which swept through the property on Friday.
“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,” the family said in a statement.
“One additional horse remains in a critical condition and is receiving intensive veterinary care.
“All owners directly affected have been notified.”
The Hayes family said staff were able to save 320 horses during the emergency. A further 128 thoroughbreds were relocated to the Inglis sales complex, which is assisting trainers and thoroughbred farms affected by the ongoing bushfires.
“Every possible measure was taken to protect all the horses and the property under extremely difficult and rapidly changing conditions,” the statement continued.
“The priority throughout the event remained the safety of people and horses.
“We extend our sincere sympathies to the owners who have suffered losses, and our thoughts are with the broader community and all those affected by the fires.
“The Lindsay Park team, who work tirelessly to care for these horses every day after devastated by the events, and we will be ensuring they are supported.”
Racing Victoria also issued a statement on Sunday, describing the situation as “heartbreaking news from Lindsay Park”.
“Our thoughts are with the owners, the Hayes family, the Lindsay Park team, and all those affected by this tragic event,” Racing Victoria said.
“We recognise the profound emotional toll such circumstances place on the people who look after these horses every day and have a deep involvement with them.
“Racing Victoria extends its sincere sympathies to everyone impacted and acknowledges the efforts of emergency services and those working tirelessly in exceptionally difficult conditions to protect lives and property.
“We remain in contact with Lindsay Park and will continue to offer our support during this challenging time.”
The Hayes family had earlier confirmed that “nearly all paddocks” on the property had been burnt, with boundary fencing and several structures destroyed, including a house under construction for Ben Hayes.
Iconic trainer David Hayes, father of Ben, Will and JD, returned from Hong Kong – where he trains champion sprinter Ka Ying Rising – on the first available flight to help his sons at the property.
While the main stables and operational areas were not damaged, the blaze destroyed multiple paddocks, fences and structures, including a barn and the under-construction house that was to become Ben Hayes’ residence.
Images: Shutterstock
