Jockey Dean Holland has been remembered as a doting father and loving partner with a cheeky grin and lust for life.
Holland, 34, was in the final sprint to the finish line in a race at Donald, north-west Victoria, on April 24 when his horse veered suddenly and crashed into the inside rail. He was treated by paramedics but died at the scene.
Hundreds of people gathered at Melbourne's Flemington Racecourse on Monday afternoon to remember and pay tribute to the popular jockey.
A guard of honour was formed on the race track after the ceremony, with two riders on horseback leading a hearse down the race track towards the winning post as hundreds watched on clapping.
Holland has been remembered as a fine rider and excellent horseman with a magnetic nature who won 1,118 races.
Former jockey James Winks remembered his friend as an all star rider and genuine bloke who would be sorely missed.
"He was naturally gifted and rarely made a mistake. He was 5 foot nothing, 49 kilos ringing wet and strong as an ox," Winks said.
"He worked hard, travelled far and played fair. He was humbled by the success of others — a true testament to character and genuine bloke he was.
"He was simply a gentleman of the sport."
Holland planned to marry partner later this year
Videos were played of Holland singing the song The Gambler by Kenny Rogers, and of one of his young children cheering him on at a racetrack.
Speaking on behalf of Holland's parents, Belinda and Darren, former chairman of the Australian Jockeys Association Des O'Keeffe described a young Holland who was energetic, tenacious and sport-obsessed.
But he was at his happiest in his role as a father and partner, according to his parents.
"Honestly, it was as if he grew up overnight," the Hollands said in the tribute read by Mr O'Keeffe.
"He met Lucy while she was travelling in Australia, and after she returned to the UK he quickly took a break from riding and chased her all the way back over there and somehow got her to agree to come back and settle with him in Melbourne.
"We know we saw Dean at his very best with Lucy and the kids.
Mr O'Keeffe revealed Holland and his partner had planned to get married in December after initial plans were disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Holland's parents thanked their son's friends and fellow jockeys for their support, across Victoria, South Australia, the country and the world.
"Finally, we want to thank every person involved and outside of racing, at every level for their love, care and support at this horrible time," they said.
"What has happened is overwhelming, but the response to what has happened also makes dealing with our loss a little bit easier.
"We know Dean would be grateful for your love and for your support of Lucy and the children, and for us, and we are greatly comforted by that."
'A huge hole in our lives'
Holland, a father of four young children, hailed from a racing family, with his father and grandfather both jockeys as well.
He began racing in South Australia in 2005 before riding his first winner at Ceduna in 2006.
Holland's uncle, Scott Holland, held back tears as he paid tribute to his nephew, saying he would miss his hugs and phone calls.
"His smile was infectious, amazing, you couldn't help but laugh when he laughed," he said.
"Whenever Dean and I would see each other, I would go to shake his hand and he would pull me in for the best hug. Dean was very special to me, he would be amazed and privileged to see how many people are celebrating his life.
"Nothing will ever replace our Dean.
"He leaves us broken-hearted and with a huge hole in our lives. There's nothing I can say that will ever ease the pain and grieving, but we are a loving family and together we will comfort each other through this tragedy and pain."
A larrikin loved by the Australian public
Sister Kirstie Arnel said Holland was like a big brother to her, despite the fact she was the older sibling.
She remembered her brother as a much-loved larrikin who was idolised by his family.
"May you rest in peace Uncle Deaney we love you to the moon and back," she said.
"I've sure taken some comfort in knowing Australia loved you just as much as me."
Ms Arnel said her brother's death was a reminder that people should be more vulnerable with family members and tell them more often how they felt.
"Over the last four years I feel like we've become closer than ever," Ms Arnel said.
"Don't get me wrong, you've grinded my gears and I've wanted to absolutely punch your lights out, but overall you've loved and worked harder than anyone could possibly do to provide for your beautiful family, and you've made me extremely proud of the daddy that you are to Harley, Frankie, Luca and Lily."
The parents of Holland's wife Lucy spoke of a "wonderful man" who had stolen the heart of their daughter and who they had grown to love.
"This man with overwhelming generosity, this man with wit, with laughter, with a generous proportion of downright cheek. Plus, of course, a cavernous love of steak," they said.
"This man with obvious sincere love for our daughter."
