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The Goulburn Valley harness community is saddened by the passing of local participant Brian (Johnno) Johnstone on Thursday, March 6 at the age of 84.
Brian grew up around Kerang with his great mate, the late Murray Pay, before relocating to Croydon and had a long history in the sport.
His first horse was Vestalba Rainbow gelding Fast Fergus, a winner of 17 with 38 placings back on April 16, 1990, which had already won races prior at the picnic meetings.
Brian’s proudest moment was when six-year-old Live Or Die gelding A Special Dream (14 wins and 35 placings) scored for him as owner at Melton on February 23, 2018 with Darby McGuigan in the sulky.
Other winners he had been involved with were Prince Con and 2023 Yarra Valley Cup winner Serg Blanco.
Brian is survived by son Wayne and daughter Leeanne, second wife Lorraine Duffy, stepsons Steven and Peter Duffy, stepdaughter Sharon Brittan and great grandchildren Jake, Todd and Ryan.
It is anticipated that a memorial service will be held at the Kialla Raceway on Friday, March 21.
Harness Racing Victoria extends sincere sympathy to Brian’s friends and family.
