In the tranquil heart of Narromine, a mere 40 kilometers from Dubbo, a remarkable father-daughter duo, Wayne Collison and Kylie Kennedy, have carved out individual yet intertwined legacies in the world of horse racing. Operating from their respective stables, their story is one of passion, dedication, and a shared love for the sport that has been a part of their family for generations. Wayne, a former jockey with a career spanning approximately 25 years, transitioned into training, following in the footsteps of his wife, Robyn Douglas, who also made a significant mark as a trainer in the central west region. It’s no surprise that one of their four daughters, Kylie, inherited the racing genes, going on to achieve around 150 wins in her own right.
The podcast begins with Wayne, who reflects on a recent period of success. He fondly recalls a trip to the renowned Louth meeting, where one of his three runners emerged victorious. The former jockey acknowledges the specific horses that have contributed to his winning streak, emphasizing the personal touch he maintains by riding all of his small team in trackwork himself. Wayne discusses the excellent facilities at his disposal, a testament to his eighteen years of experience as the Narromine track manager. He highlights the inherent strengths of the central western racecourse, a venue he knows intimately.
Wayne’s journey in racing began in his early childhood in Cassilis, where he was involved with an under-5 stone Rugby League side. Circumstances led him to an apprenticeship with the prominent Newcastle trainer, Roy Hinton. The 69-year-old retains vivid memories of a winner on his very first race ride, paying tribute to the rider of the runner-up. His career saw a winning association with the smart sprinter Brother Smoke, a horse who achieved numerous victories despite a chronic windsucking habit. The veteran horseman then details the transfer of his apprenticeship to the respected Walcha trainer, Ron Martin, recalling the “ferocious” winters and some of the handy horses he rode for that stable.
A stint with a Canowindra stable proved pivotal, leading to an association with a very smart horse and a chance encounter with the woman who would become his wife and the mother of his four daughters. An offer to join the Jack Walsh stable ultimately brought Wayne to Narromine, where he has proudly resided for forty years. He looks back fondly on his days as a jockey in western New South Wales, reminiscing about the far-flung places he visited. Wayne remembers two prominent trainers with whom he shared a strong association, as well as a “rogue horse” that gave him considerable trouble. He also acknowledges Robyn’s success as a registered trainer, paying tribute to some of her standout horses. Wayne recalls the unwavering support of owner/breeder Les Gibson, who raced a very special horse in the 1950s. Robyn has since retired from training and taken on a special role at a local retirement village. Wayne then reveals his motivations for quitting the saddle and his seamless transition into training, acknowledging the many handy horses that have aided his success.
Kylie Kennedy, Wayne’s daughter, joins the conversation to share insights into the lives of her three sisters and the invaluable early support she received from her parents. Kylie speaks about her seventeen years of training and her favorite horses. She expresses immense praise for her partner, champion amateur rider Ricky Blewitt, whose contribution to her stable is immeasurable. This laid-back chat offers a glimpse into the lives of a dedicated country racing family, highlighting the enduring passion and shared commitment that define their success.
