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IT’S exactly 10 years since Johnny Allen replied to an advertisement in The Irish Field, looking for jump jockeys to travel to Australia.
The Corkman settled in quickly and rode plenty of winners over jumps before trying his luck on the flat as well. Today he is one of the elite flat jockeys in Australia, winning Group 1 races on a regular basis.
Shane Jackson too has a great story to tell. From Wicklow, he took the plunge to head down under in 2012. He went on to become champion jump jockey twice before retiring at the top last year. Now he is encouraging the next generation to follow in his footsteps.
Due to the retirement of several senior riders, Australian racing is inviting applications from experienced professional jump jockeys to start a new chapter in their careers.
Successful applicants will be provided with the necessary visas, flights, accommodation and full-time employment. Those who wish to bring a partner will also be considered.
Asked why Irish jockeys should consider the big move, Jackson said: “It’s been a great experience for me. I had a few successful years at home – I was champion conditional – and when things quietened down my partner and I, along with our young son, decided to move here. I had been to Australia on tour before, so I had some contacts. But the jumps community here is friendly and tightly knit. Everyone is welcoming and you don’t feel too far from home.”
Shane now has three children, a beautiful home, and no regrets. “It’s been great for us. You get well paid for your work and the prize money is very good. It’s a great lifestyle and there are lots of opportunities if you put the work in. Australia has a thriving racing industry and there are options open to you after riding.”
Since his retirement Shane works as assistant trainer to Lindsey Smith, a multiple Group 1-winning yard. “We have 60 horses and my house overlooks the racecourse at Warrnambool, a regional town on the south coast, about three hours from Melbourne.”
He says Covid-19 restrictions have largely been lifted in the area and, with over 90% of the population doubly vaccinated, it’s life as normal.
Tom Ryan and Willie McCarthy are other Irishmen who have had great careers as jump jockeys in Australia.
Marlee Horobin of the Australian Jumping Racing Association said: “Irish jockeys accepted into Australia would be living in some of the most beautiful regions in Victoria, Warrnambool, Ballarat and Mornington Peninsula. There are great career prospects for those in the jumps racing industry, great money, good lifestyle, and working at some of Victoria’s leading stables.
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