Queensland harness industry mourns beloved red coat

By Jordan Gerrans

To be dubbed the Blacks A Fake of your area of expertise in the harness racing industry is extremely high praise.

And, it is a fitting summation of Don Ross Snr’s contribution to the code he devoted his life to in the Sunshine State following his sad passing over the weekend.

He was 90 years of age.

The beloved ‘red coat’ officially retired from his role at harness tracks in the state in November of last year.

The Ross clan - and their trusted off-sider Dexter McLean - were regarded as institutions of the sport in their role as clerks of the course at harness racing tracks after almost four decades of service.

The entire harness racing community is mourning the loss of a revered figure in the caper.

The voice of Queensland harness racing Chris Barsby said Ross Snr was the type of person who’s word meant more than ‘gold bullion reserves in the world's biggest bank’.

"The impact of Don Ross on Queensland harness racing is profound, and in many ways, hard to quantify given the length and width of his reach within the industry," Barsby said.

"Everywhere you turned within this industry, there is a story to tell of his deeds and heroics on horseback - he was the ultimate "red coat" who safeguarded our industry for well over three decades before a deserving retirement.

"But, his stature within the industry stands above all others, a man's man with a handshake like a sledgehammer while he had a soft touch that was both caring and nurturing.”

The Ross name as the clerks of the course dates back to 1986 and they were there every step along the way until their retirement late last year.

The respected group was led by ‘head red coat’ as he dubbed himself - Don Ross Snr.

Ross Snr was a renowned horseman and a popular figure at clubs, working alongside his son Donny as a clerk of the course, as well as his grandson Donald.

Granddaughters Isobel and Stephanie have also given a helping hand over the years as has McLean, who is also a trainer and driver in the sport.

In 2016, Ross Snr was inducted to the Queensland Harness Racing Hall of Fame and later was a member of the Hall of Fame selection panel.

In 2023, Ross Snr was awarded life membership of the Albion Park Harness Racing Club.

When asked to sum up Ross Snr's contribution over the generations, Racing Queensland’s General Manager of Racing David Brick likened him to the great pacer Blacks A Fake.

He of course is talking about the four-time Inter Dominion champion whose name has in recent years been bestowed upon the Grand Circuit race during the Queensland Constellations.

“Don's induction into the Queensland Harness Racing Hall Of Fame illustrates the calibre of person Don was,” Brick said.

“He was a great horseman who served and cared for the many participants of the Queensland harness racing industry for more than three decades.

“When it came to red coats, Don was the Blacks A Fake of his profession.”

A clerk of the course provides high-quality horsemanship to assist with the punctual, orderly and safe running of races as the position helps race day officials and industry participants.

Despite nearing 90 years of age when Ross Snr retired last year, he did not do so because his body was slowing down.

“I am right as rain to ride,” he said when asked about being on horseback as he neared his 90^th birthday.

The team opted to walk away from the role as clerk of the course at Albion Park, Redcliffe and Marburg to pursue other interests.

Ross Snr was introduced to harness horses by his parents and recalled being involved with chariot racing in the early 1950s.

The family also runs the Don Ross Show Entertainment which supplies horses for theatre, shows, promotions, film industry and special events.

As a mark of respect, the flags at ‘The Creek’ were lowered to half-mast on Saturday and drivers wore black armbands during the metropolitan program.

Brad Steele was the Albion Park Harness Racing Club Chairman when Ross Snr was handed his Life Membership certificate.

Steele is now the Chief Executive of Harness Racing New Zealand and described the late red coat as ‘the steady hand and watchful eye that every harness driver relied on’.

“His presence on the track was a reassurance, a silent promise that someone with unparalleled expertise and commitment was watching over them,” Steele said.

“Drivers often expressed how safe they felt, knowing Don was there to step in if something went wrong. Whether it was ensuring smooth race operations or responding swiftly to unforeseen incidents, Don embodied the qualities of a true professional.

“Don’s skills as a horseman were second to none. He had an innate understanding of horses and his ability to handle even the most challenging situations with grace and control earned him widespread respect.

“Don’s expertise extended beyond his duties as clerk of the course; he was a mentor, sharing his knowledge generously with others in the industry, helping to shape the next generation of horsemen and women.”

Steele remarked that Ross Snr wasn’t just a figure on the track, he was a cornerstone of Queensland harness racing.

“His dedication, integrity and love for the sport set a standard that others aspired to meet.” Steele said.

“He played a significant role in fostering a sense of community within the industry, always willing to lend a hand or offer advice.

“His influence reached beyond his immediate role, contributing to the growth and professionalism of harness racing in the region.

“Don Ross Snr was more than a clerk of the course; he was a friend to many, a confidant, and a protector. He was the guardian of safety, a consummate horseman, and a passionate advocate for the sport.”

Albion Park Harness Racing Club Chief Operating Officer Ken Rutherford also remembered Ross Snr's influence.

“While Don was preparing to hang up his red coat around the same time I started here at ‘The Creek’, one thing that struck me was how everyone spoke so glowingly about the man,” Rutherford said.

“I knew that this was a man that was deeply respected by all that crossed his path. He was a true gentleman, who spent much of his life dedicated to the harness racing industry in Queensland, keeping the drivers safe.

"Such was Don’s standing in the industry, being awarded life membership of the Albion Park Harness Racing Club was only fitting.

"Don was universally admired and respected, firstly as a gentleman secondly as a man with tremendous skills and abilities aboard a horse.”

Don Ross Snr is survived by his loving wife Judy.

Racing Queensland extends its condolences to the Ross family.