Vale Kaye Hartnett

The Victorian harness racing community is saddened by the passing of long-time owner/breeder Kaye Hartnett at the age of 85.

Kaye and late husband Martin bred and raced numerous horses over the years, all wearing the familiar colours of gold and black diamonds with the majority carrying the ‘Illawong’ prefix in their name.

Horses that readily come to mind are Illawong Awesome, Illawong Breeze, Illawong Larajay, Illawong Maestro, Illawong Phoenix, Illawong Moonbeam, Illawong Armstrong and Victoria Trotters Derby winner Illawong Helios just to name a few.

They enjoyed success with various trainers over the years, the most notable being Brian Gath, Jodi Quinlan, Jess Tubbs and Tony Peacock. Veteran Inverleigh trainer Bob Kuchenmeister was one of the first to be associated with them, along with Bill Bond and Kevin Innes who are now departed.

Kaye had curtailed her interest in the sport since Martin’s passing and rarely attended race meetings, but still watched Sky Racing on a regular basis should the horses be racing.

A most likable person, Kaye’s funeral will be held at Scot’s Church, corner Russell and Collins streets, Melbourne at 11am on Wednesday, July 17.

Tobin Brothers will be streaming the service, which will be available by going to tobinbrothers.com.au/hartnett

Harness Racing Victoria expresses its sincere condolences to the Harnett family.

by Len Baker for Harness Racing Victoria