‘One in a million’: Jockey Peta Tait passes away in shocking Melbourne stable accident | International Sports News

Australia’s horse racing community is devastated by the loss of former jockey Peta Tait, aged 43. Peta Tait was an incredibly passionate horsewoman and an incredibly dedicated worker. She died during a working accident at a stable in Cranbourne, Melbourne on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. When the accident occurred, she was working at the stable as a stable hand. Many people in the racing world including trainers, jockeys, and officials among others are mourning the passing of a lady lovingly known as “one in a million.” Tributes have been pouring in from across the country.
How Did Peta Tait Lose Her Life at the Cranbourne Training Centre in Melbourne?
July 1, 2025, Peta Tait was a stable hand at Cranbourne Training Centre in south-east Melbourne, Australia. Peta Tait was astonished around 7:30 a.m. and struck in the head by a horse.Emergency services were contacted; ambulances were on scene within twenty minutes. Right away, they started CPR, but tragically Peta Tait did not live.Her workplace, Busuttin Racing, shared a statement the next day confirming her death and expressing deep sadness. “Peta was a much-loved part of our team. We are thinking of her family, friends, and everyone in the racing world,” the team shared.Victoria Police also verified the incident and stated that the death is not regarded as questionable. The Australian workplace safety organization, WorkSafe, has been advised and will examine the case.
Tributes pour in for Peta Tait from jockeys and horse racing officials
Following the accident, tributes came in from across the country. Popular jockey Daniel Moor wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “It’s hard to find words for someone like Peta. She was truly one in a million, always thinking of others and doing her best at work.”Racing Victoria CEO Aaron Morrison also released a heartfelt message: “On behalf of everyone in Victorian racing, we send our deepest condolences. Peta was passionate about horses and had a strong connection with the sport—both as a rider and a team member.”Peta Tait had also taken part in picnic racing events, enjoying amateur races where she often found success. She had helped a lot of racehorses in the paddock, working with trainers on the day or track. This gap is profound for a close-knit Australian horse racing industry.Also Read: MP Equine Deaths Blow Lid Off Plan For IPL-Style Horse Races