![A firefighting helicopter battles the Longwood bushfire on Thursday. [State Control Centre]](https://betsy.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/fbcd8afa2ec589523b0786c75ab5342f68c54e61.webp)
Lindsay Park have confirmed seven horses died on their property due to the Longwood bushfires that ravaged parts of Victoria.
The fire hit a number of racing related properties during the week, causing significant damage, including the loss of trainer Ben Hayes’ home.
Lindsay Park staff were forced to evacuate for a period of time due to the dangerous conditions. Despite saving more than 300 horses, unfortunately seven died and another remains in a critical condition.
“Following the bushfire that impacted our property on Friday, we wish to provide an update on the outcome of the event,” the statement said.
“Now that all horses on the property have been accounted for and assessed, Lindsay Park can confirm that seven horses have tragically been lost from injuries sustained in the fire. Five were spelling racehorses and two were retirees. One additional horse remains in a critical condition and is receiving intensive veterinary care. All owners directly affected have been notified.”
“Through the combined efforts of our staff, the CFA, and family members, 320 horses were brought through the fire safely and their ongoing wellbeing is assured.”
“Every possible measure was taken to protect all the horses and the property under extremely difficult and rapidly changing conditions. The priority throughout the event remained the safety of people and horses.”
“We extend our sincere sympathies to the owners who have suffered losses, and our thoughts are with the broader community and all those affected by the fires. The Lindsay Park team who work tirelessly to care for these horses everyday are devastated by the events, and we will be ensuring they are supported.”
“We would like to acknowledge and thank the CFA and emergency services for their support, as well as our staff for their commitment and courage during this event.”
“We are also deeply grateful to the wider racing community for its overwhelming support – from those who assisted on the farm and helped float horses, to Inglis for housing 128 of our horses, and to the many people who have opened their homes and businesses to our staff while they are unable to return to the farm.”
Racing Victoria released a statement on Sunday regarding the loss of horses.
“Racing Victoria (RV) acknowledges the heartbreaking news from Lindsay Park confirming the loss of seven horses as a result of the Longwood bushfire that impacted the property on Friday.”
“Our thoughts are with the owners, the Hayes family, the Lindsay Park team, and all those affected by this tragic event. We recognise the profound emotional toll such circumstances place on the people who look after these horses every day and have a deep involvement with them.”
“Racing Victoria extends its sincere sympathies to everyone impacted and acknowledges the efforts of emergency services and those working tirelessly in exceptionally difficult conditions to protect lives and property. We remain in contact with Lindsay Park and will continue to offer our support during this challenging time.”
“Racing Victoria would like to remind all racing participants of the availability of support services such as Stableline, which offers free and strictly confidential mental health and wellbeing support to industry participants and their immediate family members. Call 1300 520 122 at any time to book a face-to-face, telephone or online appointment. More information can be found on the RV website.”
