One of Victorian racing’s most renowned families is once again plunged deep in grief following the passing of Bernadette Payne, aged 51. Announced by Racing Victoria, Bernadette was the sister of Michelle Payne, who made history as the first woman to ride the winner of the Melbourne Cup.
Bernadette Payne's departure came on March 4, 2025, as the Payne family shared their sorrowful announcement. "It is with deep sadness we confirm Bernadette has passed away," read their statement. "She had a very difficult and challenging time in recent years, and we find solace in the hope she is now at peace. She was loved by many throughout her life. We ask our family’s privacy is respected at this time. Thank you."
The Payne family is well-known within the Australian racing circuits. Paddy Payne, their father, faced the incredible challenge of raising ten children after the tragic death of his wife, Mary, who died following a car accident when Michelle was just six months old. The loss of his wife forced Paddy and his older children to step up and take on responsibilities far beyond their years, as they worked to create stability within their family.
Paddy's role as both father and trainer infused the household with racing culture. Bernadette herself became one of eight siblings to become jockeys, showing what the family legacy truly means. Bernadette began her racing career with her first victory at Nhill back in 1993 and went on to ride almost 200 winners before retiring from the sport in 2009.
Reflecting on the family's history, Michelle Payne often reminisced about the pivotal role Bernadette played during their childhood. "Bernadette was 11 years old and getting up in the middle of the night feeding me," Michelle shared during an interview on Racing.com last year. "Amazing what they did and just without any fuss they just did what they had to do. It was just incredible they got through it and are so strong." These poignant memories showcase the unwavering familial support they shared, steeped deeply within the challenging circumstances they overcame together.
Bernadette’s life was also marked by considerable challenges; she had been facing difficulties in recent years, as acknowledged within the family’s heartfelt statement. The legacy of tragedy surrounds the Payne family, having previously faced the heart-wrenching loss of Brigid Payne, another sister, who passed away from a heart attack at the young age of 36 back in 2007. This recent loss of Bernadette, following Brigid's untimely death, signifies the emotional and psychological toll the family has endured.
Emotional tributes began pouring from the horse racing community as news of Bernadette's passing broke. The Australian Jockey’s Association issued their condolences by stating, "Very saddened to hear of the passing of a beautiful lady who was loved and respected by so many. RIP Bernadette, you are now at peace. Deepest sympathy to one of the great families in racing, the Payne family; sending love to you all." It is clear how much Bernadette was appreciated not just within her family, but throughout the broader racing community.
Having lived through significant family strife, the Payne family's story is both tragic and inspiring. The resilience they found amid their struggles garnered them admiration from many across the racing industry. Michelle Payne, who gallantly won the Melbourne Cup with her horse Prince of Penzance in 2015, reflects both the legacy of her family and their collective determination to succeed against all odds.
While the Payne family mourns the loss of Bernadette, they also celebrate her life and achievements, standing as testimonies of love and perseverance within the intensely competitive world of horse racing. Funeral details are yet to be announced, but tributes, memories, and support continue to flow from friends, family, and admirers alike.
The Payne family's story is woven with threads of triumph and tragedy, highlighting the strength it takes to rise through life's challenges. Bernadette's legacy will forever resonate within the walls of the Payne household and will continue to inspire even as the family navigates through this difficult loss.