In a sport that gets more than its fair share of knocks in the media, few highlighted the love of the horse more than Graham Salisbury, who alongside his trusted steed Subzero provided so much joy to those that needed it most.
Graham passed away in Bendigo Hospital at the age of 76 after his well-documented battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Anita, children Nicole and Anthony, and his adored 1992 Melbourne Cup winner Subzero.
The outpouring of respect on social media for the man that retired almost unknown to anyone outside of racing to transition to a national and even international celebrity has been heart-warming.
In a prepared statement Racing Victoria Chief Executive, Giles Thompson, said: “This is an incredibly sad day for the Victorian racing industry as we farewell one of our greatest and much-loved servants.
“Graham’s dedication to the sport was incredible and Victorian racing will be forever indebted to him for his service and his great love of the horse.
“He was one of our longest serving employees spending more than 40 years in the saddle as a clerk of the course, in the process earning an army of friends within our industry.
“He will be best remembered though for his work alongside his great mate Subzero, together bringing joy to the masses as they toured the community promoting our sport and the thoroughbred.
“From school children to the elderly, those battling ill health to Hollywood A-listers, racing devotees to everyday Australians, Graham and Subzero touched so many hearts.
“There will be many a tear shed as people remember Graham and the bond he shared with one of our most famous racehorses, ‘Subbie’, the Melbourne Cup winner who soared to even greater heights off the track thanks to the incredible love and dedication of Graham.
“To Anita and the Salisbury family, the Victorian racing industry offers its sincerest condolences upon the passing of a great racing man. Graham may be gone, but he will never be forgotten."
