Violet Murrell, 1934

This iconic image of Violet Murrell and her beloved Garryowen in 1934.  Violet Murrell was a woman ahead of her time.  Violets love of horses led her to be one of the most talented, loved and admired riders in the country.  From being one of the first female jockeys in Australia, despite the many challenges she faced as a female jockey in 1920’s, Violets courage and talent made her adored throughout Australia.  Violets natural daring and fearless nature saw her win as a jockey and also in Show jumping, Steeple Chase, Point to Point, Hunting and Hacking winning many Champion Hack and Champion Rider Classes at Melbourne and Sydney Royal Shows.  Violet and Garryowen won over 200 prizes together including Garryowen being Champion Hack at Melbourne Royal for three consecutive years (1931-1933) Along with her charity work it is easy to understand why she had such an impact on all that she met.

In 1934 at the age of 29 Violet tragically lost her life in a stable fire at their family home in Mentone trying to save Garryowen and his stable mate Piquant. Her husband Bill Murrell was so badly burnt trying to save his wife and he later lost his life also.   This tragedy of love still touches the hearts of us all and brings tears to the eyes of so many to this day.