The Australian horse racing industry is in a state of profound grief following the devastating death of apprentice jockey Bronte Simpson. The 24-year-old lost her life in a single-vehicle accident on Monday night, cutting short a promising career defined by resilience and passion.
A Fatal Crash on the Castlereagh Highway
The tragic incident occurred on the Castlereagh Highway, approximately 80 kilometres outside of Dubbo in New South Wales. NSW Police reported that Good Samaritans discovered the crashed SUV and immediately contacted emergency services. Despite the efforts of passers-by who rushed to assist the driver, the young woman, believed to be in her 20s, died at the scene. Officers from the Orana Mid Western Police District are now preparing a report for the coroner.
A Career Forged Through Determination
Bronte Simpson's journey in racing was a testament to her dedication. Originally from Ballarat in Victoria, she relocated to New South Wales to pursue her professional ambitions. Her path was not without significant hurdles. In 2023, her career faced a serious threat when she suffered a broken jaw after being kicked by a horse, requiring surgery to insert a plate.
"I had to have surgery to have a plate inserted in my jaw but there was no way I was going to quit," Simpson had said, highlighting her fierce determination. "I love the industry and always wanted to become a jockey."
Her perseverance paid off earlier this year when she celebrated a spectacular debut, nabbing her first win in her very first race ride. She later switched trainers from Sara Ryan to Jane Clement, continuing to build on her early success. Reflecting on her debut victory, Simpson said, "It was such a thrill to win at my first ride, and particularly for Kristen (Buchanan, trainer), who has been so supportive."
An Industry Mourns a Lost Family Member
Tributes have poured in from across the racing community, painting a picture of a beloved young professional. Tony Crisafi, CEO of the NSW Jockeys' Association, expressed the collective heartbreak.
"We've lost a member of our family in this devastating and tragic event," Crisafi said. "We have been left devastated by the news. On behalf of the association and our fellow jockeys we extend our heartfelt condolences to Bronte's family."
He noted the profound impact on Simpson's peers, stating, "In our ranks we have a lot of young female riders, many of whom Bronte was very close with and it has hit them the hardest." He assured that the association would provide full support to those grieving.
The Muswellbrook Race Club, the scene of her memorable first win, posted a simple yet powerful tribute: "Condolences to Bronte's family and friends. RIP Bronte, a life taken too early." The racing world now mourns a talented jockey whose bright future was tragically extinguished far too soon.
