Media Release: Muswellbrook Race Club Christine Williams appointed as General Manager
June 7, 2024
It is with great sadness that the Muswellbrook Race Club heard of the passing of Dr Jim Rodger.
Jim was a Muswellbrook Race Club Board member for more than 20 years, a number as Chairman and was presented with club Life Membership in recognition of his services over many years.
Jim was an esteemed equine breeding and racing vet, who graduated from the University of Glasgow, Scotland.
He came to Australia from Newmarket in the 1970s to become part of the renowned Morgan Howey and Fraser equine veterinary practice at Scone and later Denman.
After many years he went on to establish his own practice at Jerrys Plains playing a key role in Jack and Bob Ingham’s Woodland Stud.
Jim was a pioneering veterinarian who transformed equine medicine in Australia and was also one of the co-founders of Scone Horse Week, at the forefront of establishing Scone as the horse capital of Australia.
His role as a mentor to so many in the equine veterinary profession both within Australia, and internationally, will see his legacy continued through many generations.
Until his death, Jim’s expertise and specialist skills in equine reproduction were still sought-after as he continued to conduct his successful practice at Jerrys Plains.
Jim was also a worthy recipient of the Hunter and North West Racing Association’s Bede Thomas Award for his significant contributions not only to the club, but also to NSW country racing.
He will be remembered as an accomplished artist, a lovable rogue with an infectious sense of humour, a caring, gentle friend and a devoted father, grandfather and partner.
The Muswellbrook Race Club extends its deepest condolences to Jim’s family and friends at this time.