Julian Attard pictured driving Bashful Dancer to victory at Gosford on March 26, 1984. Photo courtesy of the NSWHRC.
THE industry was saddened to hear of the passing of renowned strapper Julian ‘Shamo’ Attard.
Julian passed away last Sunday after battling cancer for serval months, aged 69.
He trained and drove his own horses but in the later years of his life, Julian assisted the Fitzpatrick stable in Cawdor as a strapper.
“He worked with us for 10 to 15 years,” Gavin Fitzpatrick said.
“He was great friends with Jeffrey Usher, who owns Sally Fletcher, and he just started coming over and helping out one day.
“He worked at the Ingham’s factory for many years and loved it there but he loved his horses too.
“He drove winners at Harold Park back in the day and did train and drive his own horses.”
The last winner Julian trained and drove was Bashful Dancer at Gosford on March 26, 1984.
A kinder man was hard to find on any racetrack according to Harness Racing New South Wales chief executive John Dumesny.
“Julian never had an unkind word to say about anyone or anything in the industry he just loved,” Dumesny said.
“This can be measured by the fact he respected everyone and everyone that knew Julian respected him.
“His welcoming face will be sorely missed at racetracks across the state.
“On behalf of the industry, I offer the deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
A funeral for Julian will be held on Monday January 15 at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Leppington, in the North Chapel at 10am.
The Board and Management of HRNSW extends their deepest sympathies to Julian’s family and many friends.
Harness Racing NSW (HRNSW) is the controlling body for harness racing in New South Wales with responsibility for commercial and regulatory management of the industry including 33 racing clubs across the State. HRNSW is headed by a Board of Directors and is independent of Government.
To arrange an interview or for further information please contact:
AMANDA RANDO | MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
(02) 9722 6600 • arando@hrnsw.com.au • @Amanda_Rando
