The Australian horse racing community is in mourning following the tragic death of rising apprentice jockey Bronte Simpson in a single-vehicle accident. The 24-year-old lost her life on Monday night, 22 December 2025, sending shockwaves through the industry.
Details of the Fatal Incident
New South Wales Police confirmed that the young jockey died when her SUV left the Castlereagh Highway and struck a tree. The accident occurred at Mendooran, approximately 80 kilometres north-west of Dubbo, at around 9:15pm.
Emergency services were called after a passing motorist discovered the crashed vehicle. Despite assistance from passers-by at the scene, the woman, believed to be in her 20s, could not be saved and died at the location.
Industry Reacts with Profound Grief
Tony Crisafi, the boss of the NSW Jockeys' Association, expressed the collective devastation felt across the racing world. He described the loss as that of a family member in a "devastating and tragic event."
"We have been left devastated by the news," Crisafi stated. "On behalf of the association and our fellow jockeys we extend our heartfelt condolences to Bronte's family." He acknowledged the profound impact on the many young female riders Simpson was close to, pledging the association's full support.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Born and raised in Ballarat, Bronte Simpson grew up around horses and officially began her riding career in May 2025. She enjoyed a dream start, winning on Stylebender at Muswellbrook in her very first race ride.
Her early success was notable, quickly reducing her apprentice claim from 4kg to 3kg and riding a total of 14 winners before her untimely death. Her determination was previously tested in December 2023 when she suffered serious facial injuries, including a broken jaw, after being kicked by a horse. She made a defiant recovery, stating at the time, "There was no way I was going to quit. I love the industry and always wanted to become a jockey."
Outpouring of Tributes and Reflection
Social media has been flooded with tributes for the popular and well-loved apprentice. Friends, fans, and colleagues remembered her as "well loved in the community" and "living her dream and on her way to the top."
One poignant post highlighted the often-overlooked dangers jockeys face beyond the track: "Whilst it is such a dangerous sport... many forget about the hours upon hours they are on the road driving from meet to meet. The fatigue involved." This sentiment underscores the immense travel demands of the profession.
The racing industry is now left to grapple with the loss of a bright young talent, whose spirit and dedication had marked her for a successful future in the sport.
