The Marriott Family
A family synonymous with Clydesdales
The Marriott family name is synonymous with Clydesdale horses and the spectacular sight they bring to the Melbourne Royal Show every year.
In 1946 the family first began showing the pick of their working Clydesdales at the Melbourne Royal Show in the new harness section. By 1960, their horses were taking out top prizes in the show ring and the family had become renowned stud breeders.
Each generation has taken the reins at the Melbourne Royal Show for decades, and aside from 2020 and 2021 when the pandemic caused cancellations, the family has not missed a Show from 1946.
With their manes and tails braided, and their distinctive feathers washed until they’re pearly white, it’s a sight to behold as four Clydesdales working together create a vision of the past in today’s modern society.
One of the Marriott horses ready for competition. Image Source: ABC Landline: Tim Lee.
Ross Marriott passed away on June 14, 2022 and left an indelible mark on the heavy horse community at Melbourne Royal Show and across the country.
Sadly, there have been some tragic losses from the Marriott family in recent years.
Ross Marriott, who has been a part of the famous display of Clydesdale horses at the Show for generations, passed away on June 14, 2022 at the age of 77.
Max and Kristin Marriott also passed away in early 2023. Max was proudly elected to Melbourne Royal Council in 1987 was a recipient of a President’s Medal in 2008, acknowledged as a Life Councillor for his dedicated service in 2012 and awarded Honorary Life Membership in the same year.
Max Marriott