Long-time Maryborough reinsman Barry Porteous passed away on December 28 aged 87.
Barry was a freelance reinsman who drove regularly for well-known local area trainers such as his father-in-law Hughie Jardine, J P (Jack) Moore, Brian (Foxy) Morse and Bill Whelan (all deceased) just to mention a few.
Born in 1937 at Bacchus Marsh, Barry’s trade was a wool classer and he lived mainly around Central Victoria, and usually picked up a regular drive or two at tracks such as Maryborough, Ballarat, Bendigo, Ararat and other venues throughout the Central Goldfields. He also came to the Melbourne Showgrounds to drive on occasion.
It is unknown how many winners Barry actually drove, but it would have been plentiful, one of them being prolific winner Harvian.
He was a committee member of Maryborough Harness Racing Club and was awarded life membership for services. He could be seen regularly at Maryborough meetings and also officiated at its trials.
Barry made many friends in the sport and a number were in attendance to pay tribute at his funeral held on Tuesday at the Maryborough track.
HRV sends condolences to his Barry’s family and friends.
