Vale John Patterson OAM

Patterson is intrinsically linked to the Lexus Melbourne Cup as its longest-serving Clerk of the Course, leading in 44 Cup winners after their victory in Australia’s greatest race.

A distinguished horseman, Patterson is survived by his wife Glenys and children Peter, Shane and Sheralee who each share his passion for horses. 

Peter and Shane are regular faces at Flemington as Clerks of the Course and together with John, the Patterson family has led in the Lexus Melbourne Cup winner every year bar one (1977).

Originally from Coleraine, Patterson moved to Flemington in the 1950s to start a career as an apprentice jockey. That led to his next move as a horse breaker and Clerk of the Course, with Patterson recognised in 2021 with a Medal of the Order of Australia for services to horse racing.

A permanent tribute to Patterson was established at Flemington last year with the renaming of the horse walk to Patterson Avenue.

VRC Chairman Neil Wilson shared condolences to the Patterson family on behalf of the entire club.

“John Patterson was a stalwart of the Flemington community and someone who will be dearly missed,” Mr Wilson said.

“We share our thoughts and condolences with the entire Patterson family, including Peter and Shane who have followed in their father’s footsteps as Clerks of the Course.

“The role of Clerk of the Course is as important as any on a racetrack and John’s image is entrenched in the history books alongside the 44 Cup winners he accompanied back to scale, with his ability to keep horse and rider calm and safe always on display.

“We were fortunate to celebrate the renaming of Patterson Avenue in John’s company last year, and he leaves an enduring legacy through the Patterson family and all those whose career he helped shape.”