Horse industry shattered over stud owner’s death




Updated May 01, 2012 08:39:30


Martin Hawcroft - Byerley Horse Stud, Sandy Hollow

Martin Hawcroft was found dead in a paddock on his Byerley Stud property yesterday

Tributes are pouring in for a Hunter Valley businessman found dead on his horse stud, as police investigate whether it was a tragic accident.

Investigators are not treating the death of Martin Hawcroft as suspicious.

A worker at the Byerley Horse Stud, west of Sandy Hollow, found the 53-year-old’s body tangled in fencing yesterday morning with a gunshot wound to the stomach.

Early investigations suggest Mr Hawcroft may have accidentally discharged his gun after he slipped while trying to get through a fence.

Newcastle’s horse racing industry is reeling, with Mr Hawcroft being remembered as a generous supporter of the racing sector.

Racing manager at the Newcastle Jockey Club, John Curtis, says Mr Hawcroft was well known and he will be missed.

“He was a wonderful supporter of the Newcastle Jockey Club, both on and off the pitch,” he said.

“Martin raced horses, he was a member of the club, a sponsor of the club and also provided a wonderful establishment at Noah’s for many years for our annual Spring Carnival awards, so it’s certainly shattering news indeed.”

Mr Curtis says Mr Hawcroft had made a great contribution to the industry.

“Martin’s dad Ted, of course made a great name for himself in the thoroughbred breeding industry and Martin was following on in those footsteps.

“I’m sure I can speak on behalf of all racing industry participants, both in Newcastle and the Hunter, in extending our deepest sympathies.”

Officers will continue collecting statements from workers at the stud today as they prepare a report for the coroner.

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First posted May 01, 2012 08:39:30




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