Tragedy has struck one of Victoria's most renowned racing families. The Payne family, known for their contributions to horse racing, is grieving the loss of Bernadette Payne. As the second eldest sister of Melbourne Cup champion Michelle and one of ten siblings raised by single father Paddy Payne Sr., Bernadette's life was deeply intertwined with the world of horses.

Bernadette embarked on a career as a jockey at a young age, riding her first winner in 1993 at Nhill. Over the years, she achieved remarkable success, accumulating 188 victories before retiring in 2009. Her dedication to the sport left an indelible mark on the racing community. In recent years, Bernadette faced numerous challenges, but her passing brings comfort to those who knew her, hoping she has found peace.

Family bonds played a crucial role in shaping Bernadette's life. After losing their mother Mary in a car accident in 1986, the siblings leaned on each other for support. Michelle Payne, who made history as the first woman to win the Melbourne Cup in 2015, fondly recalls how Bernadette cared for her during infancy. Bernadette, just 11 years old at the time, took on the responsibility of nurturing baby Michelle, often sacrificing her own rest to ensure her sister's well-being.

The Payne family has experienced profound loss before. In 2007, eldest sister Brigid passed away following a heart attack six months after a severe fall during track work. Despite these hardships, the Payne family continues to inspire resilience and unity. Their story serves as a testament to the strength of familial love and the enduring spirit that can arise from adversity.