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It’s sad to report the passing of long-time passionate harness devotee and owner Lorraine Duffy at 85, the mother of Shepparton trainer/driver Steven Duffy, on Saturday, August 2.
Lorraine had a long history of involvement in harness racing, spending many years working at the Trotting Control Board (now HRV) offices, which were based at the Melbourne Showgrounds.
Following that, she worked in various positions, including administration at the Sacred Heart Hospital Coburg (now John Fawkner), and in various TAB agencies on a casual basis.
Later, with husband Bill, they relocated to Kilmore and then to the Goulburn Valley (Nathalia in 1978), followed by Kialla (in 1983).
Unfortunately, Bill tragically passed away in a car accident in 1986.
Later, Lorraine became involved with the Mooroopna Harness Racing Club and was appointed secretary, playing a vital role in the production of the Mooroopna 100 Years History publication.
Lorraine married Brian (Johnno) Johnstone in 2000 and they had a wonderful life. Unfortunately, Brian passed away in March this year following a long illness.
She followed the career of her family closely, with Peter (now living in Queensland) having previously held the position of secretary at the Yarra Valley Harness Racing Club. Steven’s sons — Ryan, a successful driver today, and Jake, a prominent jockey around the provincials — also continue the family involvement in racing. Sharyn lives and works in Shepparton.
Lorraine’s greatest thrill was no doubt watching Boncel Benjamin (named after Bill), raced by Steven and daughter-in-law Julie, winning the 2021 (Sydney) Inter Dominion Grand Final.
Lorraine was thrilled to receive the Pearl Kelly Award in 2007. Her love of racing was second to none, and she had been eagerly anticipating the return to racing of Serg Blanco, one of her and Johnno’s most cherished racehorses.
Steven and Julie will be doing their best to have him back in the winner’s circle soon.
Lorraine was much loved in the Goulburn Valley and will be sadly missed.
Her funeral is to be held at 11:00 a.m. this Thursday (August 7) at St Augustine’s Anglican Church, Maude St, Shepparton.
Harness Racing Victoria extends sincere sympathy to the Duffy family and their many friends.
