The Australian thoroughbred racing industry is in shock following the tragic news of the death on Tuesday night of one of its favourite sons, multi-generational thoroughbred breeder, Basil Nolan Jnr, 43, in a farm accident at Raheen stud, Gladfield, near Warwick.
A Workplace Health and Safety spokesman has confirmed that the accident occurred some time between 11 and 11.50pm, and involved a hay baling machine, and that it has an inspector and investigator on site.
Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association committee member, Scott McAlpine, Eureka Stud, Cambooya said it was untimely and very unfortunate to lose Basil Jnr in such terrible circumstances.
“The thoroughbred breeding industry across Australia is in mourning today,” he said.
“We have received many phone calls from people offering their assistance to the Nolans at this sad time.
“Basil Nolan Jnr was the most genuine and highly regarded studmaster in the Australian thoroughbred breeding industry.”
Also deeply saddened by the death were the Thoroughbred Breeders Australia, whose chief executive Tom Reilly said everybody who knew Basil would be mourning his loss.
“On behalf of the directors and staff of TBA we extend our deepest sympathies to the Nolan family.
"Basil was one of the industry’s true gentleman. Not only was he a great horseman but, more importantly, he was a warm and generous man who always seemed to have a smile on his face.
“He was also a devoted father of four and it was always a highlight to have a chat to Basil and his children when Raheen had a draft to sell.
“I’m sure anyone who had dealings with Basil will be grieving his loss and that the whole breeding and racing community will be thinking of the Nolan family at this difficult time.”
Another of those offering their condolences was local federal Member, David Littleproud, who said he was shocked by the devastating news of Basil Nolan Jnr’s sudden passing.
“The Nolan name is synonymous with the Australian thoroughbred industry and the Southern Downs community,” he said.
“Basil Jnr’s passion for his family and our community is well-known, as was his advocacy for the future of the racing industry.
“Basil Jnr’s wife Natalie, their young children and his parents, Basil Snr and Diane, and his brothers and sisters are all in my thoughts and prayers.
“Please accept my condolences and please know that Basil Jnr and his legacy and commitment to our nation’s thoroughbred racing industry will not be forgotten.”
Raheen Stud is one of Queensland’s most successful thoroughbred nurseries, and as a leading vendor at major sales the Nolan family has sold horses for up to $480,000.
Raheen Stud is popular with both domestic and international buyers, as indicated by the current progress of top notch Hong Kong sprinter, Seasons Bloom, and Singapore’s exciting 2yo Whistling Win.
Basil Jnr is survived by his wife Natalie, his children, his parents, Basil Snr and Diane, and his brothers and sisters.