House fire claims life of SA legend

South Australian harness racing legend Dick White has tragically lost his life in a house fire at Globe Derby Park overnight.

Mr White, 85, was a prominent figure in the industry over many years, and his contributions as a trainer, driver, administrator and leader won him admirers across Australia.

He was a successful trainer-driver, with a particular love of the square-gaiters, preparing more than 300 winners and enjoying success at the elite level over four decades.

Probably without doubt Mr White's favorite horse, and the one he teamed with for many memorable victories, was bay horse Accolade (Aachen-Pilade Hall).

In honor of the horse, who raced in the late 1970s, he named his landmark Port Wakefield Road property "Accolade Park". The stable, which was prominent through to the 1990s, also produced other talented horses including Caroldons Lover, El Juras, Dual McCall and Maori Skipper.

Dick White winning a race at Globe Derby Park

Mr White took on the role of Clerk of the Course, and in later years was a passionate supporter of the industry, particularly the South Australian Square Trotters Association where he held the position of president.

The Legends Trotters Handicap at Globe Derby Park is named after White and fellow keen trotting trainer Marcus Hearl.

Mr White was also held in high regard on the bull-riding and rodeo circuits. In fact, around the 1960s, he was a pin-up boy for RM Williams' unique clothing, boots and accessories.

He was also featured widely in promotional posters riding his rodeo horse Cloudbuster in the Carrieton Rodeo in 1959.

The Country Fire Service reported the cause of the house fire was still unknown and extensive damage had resulted. It was completely gutted. A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Fire gutted the home of harness racing legend Dick White on Tuesday morning (Photograph courtesy ABC News)

Mr White, who was a father, grandfather and great-grandfather, leaves behind wife Janet, who is in aged care, and three daughters.

Harnesslink extends condolences to Mr White's family.

Terry Gange

NewsAlert PR Mildura