Industry mourning the loss of two stalwarts

Country Victoria has lost two popular harness racing figures over the past week in Barry Bottams, of Mildura, and Barry Lyons, of Bendigo.

Both were prominent in the industry over many years and were widely known and respected for the energy and passion they brought to their clubs, local communities and their sport.

Bottams spent an incredible 42 years on the Mildura Harness Racing Club committee, 26 as president, in an era when the club established itself as one of the most active in regional Victoria.

With the late Mildura HRC secretary manager Ray Hepworth, the pair were a driving force behind a successful and prosperous club.  They were widely acknowledged for their tenacity and persistent lobbying for numerous facility upgrades and improvements and an increasing number of meetings at the far northwest Victoria track.

Whether undertaking Melbourne trips to represent the club, or more day-to-day tasks like filling in as mobile barrier driver, spraying water on the marshalling yard on race night or helping out with administration, Bottams, supported by his wife Lorraine, was the first to put his hand up.

Hosting the iconic annual three-day Mildura Pacing Cup carnival was a highlight for Bottams and his generous hospitality, welcoming nature and his support for visiting trainers made him a friend to many around the State.

A trainer, driver, owner and breeder, Bottams enjoyed nothing better than finding the time to have a runner of his own during “cup week”.

The club’s tribute acknowledged Barry’s “lasting impact on harness racing in the Sunraysia region”, noting that he had been recognised with accolades outside the sport, including being named Mildura Citizen of the Year in 2021.

Barry Lyons has been described as a much-loved Life Member of the Bendigo Harness Racing Club and community.

Serving twice on the committee and stepping down as vice president only at the start of this year due to ill health, Lyons was visionary, energetic and a positive driver at the club.

“Barry was instrumental in the progression and success of the club, and was loved by all,” the club posted.

As well as running several local pubs and clubs, Barry was also a highly regarded real estate agent in the region and served for several terms as Bendigo’s Mayor.

Harnesslink extends its condolences to the families of both Barry Bottams and Barry Lyons.

by Terry Gange, for Harnesslink