Heartbreak at Trevenson Park as Staff Struggle After Closure

Geordie Julius, a 69-year-old horseman, is grappling with the devastating impact of Darren Weir’s Trevenson Park closure following the Victorian Racing Tribunal's recent decision. After over a year working at the pre-training and agistment facility, Julius and more than 40 others have been left without jobs and an uncertain future.

The shutdown came as a shock. Julius recalls returning from a routine task at the barn, only to find other staff members in tears. “I asked what was wrong, and they said, ‘We got the full two years.’ That was it. We were all gutted.”

The closure followed a protracted investigation, and the drawn-out tribunal process has left many reeling. Victorian Racing Tribunal Chair John Bowman criticised the handling of the case, stating there was “no acceptable explanation” for the delay between the end of Weir’s disqualification in February 2023 and the laying of charges in September. For workers like Julius, the prolonged uncertainty took a toll. “When Bowman was so critical of stewards, many of us thought that would be taken into account and Darren would be granted some time served,” Julius says. “I’m nearly 70, and finding work isn’t easy. The routine, the horses, the people—they gave me purpose. Now, that’s all gone. It’s not just about the money; the mental strain is real.”

Trevenson Park wasn’t just a workplace, but a tightly-knit community, run by Weir and his daughters, Bonnie and Taige. Julius speaks with pride about the setup: “Everything was organised. The best trainers and biggest owners respected the place because the horses were well cared for and prepared.” The shutdown has left a void, both personally and professionally. “Without Trevenson Park, there’s a big hole. A lot of people lost their jobs, and it’s hurt all of us.”

Julius recalls the staff would often gather for dinners at the pub, and Weir was a regular presence, always supporting his team. “He wasn’t drinking, but he’d be there, yacking away, joking with us, and he’d sit and have tea with us.” 

Weir’s openness to giving people a chance left a lasting impact on Geordie. “Anyone that came up that driveway looking for a job would get one," he said. "Whether it was for three hours one day or every day, if you wanted to work, you’d get a job." This philosophy extended to backpackers, many of whom had no prior experience with horses but quickly learned under Weir’s guidance and now leave having the skills to get a job in any stable around the world. 

Despite the controversy surrounding Weir, Julius remains loyal. “Darren’s always looked after us. He’s fair and loyal, and we know he’s learned from his mistakes. He deserves another chance.” He also emphasises Weir’s often overlooked generosity. “People don’t see how much Darren gave back to the sport and his staff. He’s not just a trainer; he’s a caring person.”

The emotional and financial fallout from the closure has hit everyone hard. “It’s not just Darren who’s suffered,” Julius says. “We’ve all lost jobs and a sense of purpose. People need to understand it’s not just about him—it’s about everyone who worked at Trevenson Park.”

The length of the tribunal case has exacerbated the strain on workers, leaving them in a state of limbo. “Every time we thought there’d be a decision, it just dragged on. It’s been tough mentally, waiting and wondering if things would ever get resolved.”

Yet, despite the challenges, Julius holds onto hope. “I’d work with Darren again in a heartbeat. He’s got so much to give to racing. If he comes back, he’ll be even better. He’s learned a lot, and he’ll bring people and horses back into the sport.”

While the future remains uncertain, Julius, who has dedicated his life to horses, isn’t ready to quit. “I should probably be retired, but I can’t just sit around. I’m thinking of getting a caravan and traveling around to work in stables when staff need a holiday. It might work for a couple of years.”

The closure of Trevenson Park isn’t just a blow to Julius and his colleagues, but to the wider Maldon community. “It’s going to affect the footy club, the hotel, the cafés—Trevenson Park brought people into town every day. And the feed store, the vet, all the providers—they’ll feel it too.”

Despite everything, Julius remains resolute in his support for Weir. “Darren’s taken what’s come his way, but people shouldn’t forget what he’s given to all of us. Now it’s our turn to stand by him.”

For Julius, the closure marks the end of more than just a job. “It’s not just Darren who’s been punished. It’s all of us. And it’s a shame because he still has so much more to offer.”


Staff at Trevenson Park in happier times.


Geordie Julius with 2015 Melbourne Cup winner Prince of Penzance at Trevenson Park. 

Comments

  1. A gentleman all the way Darren will always have our support

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