It is sad to report the death of old passionate harness dedicated and owner Lorraine Duffy on 85, the mother of Shepparton trainer/driver Steven Duffy, on Saturday 2 August.
Lorraine had a long history of involvement in racing Harnas and spent many years working in the Trotting Control Board (now HRV) offices, which were located at the Melbourne Showgrounds.
After this she worked in various positions, including administration in the Sacred Heart Hospital Coburg (now John Fawner), and in various tab fires on an informal basis.
Later they moved with husband Bill to Kilmore and then to the Goulburn -Vallei (Nathalia in 1978), followed by Kialla (in 1983).
Unfortunately Bill tragically died in a car accident in 1986.
Later Lorraine became involved in the Mooroopna Harness Racing Club and was appointed secretary and played a crucial role in the production of the Mooroopna 100 years of History Publication.
Lorraine married Brian (Johnno) Johnstone in 2000 and had a wonderful life. Unfortunately, Brian died in March this year after a long illness.
She followed the career of her family, with Peter (now lived in Queensland) previously held the position of secretary in the Yarra Valley Harness Racing Club. Steven’s Zonen – Ryan, a successful driver today, and Jake, a prominent jockey around the provincials – also continues the involvement of the family in racing. Sharyn lives and works in Shepparton.
Lorraine’s biggest sensation was undoubtedly visible how Boncel Benjamin (named after Bill), raced by Steven and daughter -in -law Julie and the 2021 (Sydney) Inter Dominion Grand Final won.
Lorraine was very happy to receive the Pearl Kelly Award in 2007. Her love for racing was unparalleled, and she eagerly expected the return to racing Serg Blanco, one of her and Johnno’s most cherished racing horses.
Steven and Julie will do their best to have him in the circle of the winner again soon.
Lorraine was very popular in the Goulburn -Valley and will unfortunately be missed.
Her funeral will be held at 11:00 this Thursday (August 7) in St Augustine’s Anglican Church, Maude St, Shepparton.
Harness Racing Victoria provides genuine sympathy for the Duffy family and their many friends.
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