❤️‍🩹 “We did everything we could, but…” — Australian sport is reeling after the sudden passing of beloved jockey Bronte Simpson, just 24.
Witnesses tried desperately to help in her final moments, but the heartbreaking truth has now emerged — leaving fans, friends, and the racing world in shock 😔
👉 Full story below👇

“We tried, but…”: Aussie Sport Rocked by the Tragic Death of Jockey Bronte Simpson, 24

The Australian horse racing community is reeling from profound grief this Christmas week, following the sudden and heartbreaking death of promising apprentice jockey Bronte Simpson, aged just 24. On the evening of December 22, 2025, Simpson lost her life in a single-vehicle crash on the Castlereagh Highway near Mendooran, northwest of Dubbo in New South Wales. Despite the desperate efforts of passers-by who stopped to render aid, the young rider could not be saved, leaving behind a devastated family, friends, and an industry that saw her as a rising star.

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NSW Police reported that emergency services were called to the scene around 9:15 pm after a passing motorist spotted the crashed SUV, which had veered off the road and collided with a tree. Good Samaritans immediately rushed to assist the driver, attempting to save her life in those critical moments. Tragically, Simpson was pronounced dead at the scene. The exact words “We tried, but…” echo the unspoken despair of those who witnessed the aftermath—a sentiment captured in the raw emotion pouring from the racing world.

Born and raised in Ballarat, Victoria, Bronte Simpson grew up immersed in the world of horses. She once shared in an interview that she was “on a horse before I could walk,” reflecting a lifelong passion that drove her to pursue a professional career in racing. Her journey began in earnest when she moved to New South Wales, starting her apprenticeship with trainer Sara Ryan at Wyong before transferring to Jane Clement in Tamworth in August 2025.

Simpson’s talent shone brightly from the start. In May 2025, she claimed victory in her very first race ride aboard Stylebender at Muswellbrook—a thrilling debut that set the tone for her promising career. She quickly added more wins, reducing her apprentice claim from 4kg to 3kg, and amassed an impressive 14 winners in her short time in the saddle. Seven of those victories came for her master, Jane Clement, with whom she shared a close bond. Her last ride was at Dubbo Turf Club on December 20, just two days before the fatal accident, where she had five mounts.

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Her determination was tested early. In December 2023, while working at a breaking-in facility on the Central Coast, Simpson suffered a severe injury when kicked by a horse, resulting in a broken jaw that required surgery and a plate insertion. Many might have walked away, but not Bronte. “There was no way I was going to quit,” she declared at the time. “I love the industry and always wanted to become a jockey.” That resilience defined her, inspiring those around her.

The news of her death has sent shockwaves through Australian sport, particularly the tight-knit racing fraternity. NSW Jockeys’ Association chief executive Tony Crisafi described it as “devastating and tragic,” stating, “We’ve lost a member of our family in this devastating and tragic event. We have been left devastated by the news.” He highlighted the impact on the many young female apprentices—over 80% of NSW apprentices are women—with whom Simpson was particularly close. “It has hit them the hardest,” Crisafi said, pledging support for those grieving.

Tributes have flooded in from across the industry. Fellow Ballarat jockey Jaylah Kennedy posted on social media: “Sending love and light to all of Bronte’s family and friends. A familiar face around our Ballarat community who left to go out and chase her dreams. Tragic that her life has been cut so short, just heartbreaking. Fly high x.” Jett Stanley, after winning at Mornington, dedicated his victory with condolences: “I’d like to send my condolences after the passing of jockey Bronte Simpson. I just want to send my love to her family and friends. She was very young and taken too soon.”

Star jockey Tommy Berry called it “devastating news,” while trainers and clubs expressed profound sorrow. Muswellbrook Race Club, site of her debut win, offered condolences, as did Bathurst, where a minute’s silence was observed. Social media has been awash with messages remembering her as well-loved, determined, and on the cusp of greater success.

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Racing mourns Bronte Simpson

The accident underscores the harsh realities faced by jockeys, who often endure long hours on the road traveling between regional tracks. As one tribute noted, “Not many travel the hours on the road that jockeys travel.” Fatigue and the demands of country racing have long been concerns in the industry.

As investigations continue—a report is being prepared for the coroner—the focus remains on honoring Bronte’s memory. Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and unfulfilled potential. From overcoming serious injury to celebrating wins with infectious joy, she embodied the spirit of Australian racing.

This Christmas, as families gather, Simpson’s loved ones mourn a life cut tragically short. The racing community wraps its arms around them, just as Crisafi promised. Bronte Simpson may be gone, but her legacy as a brave, talented young rider will endure. Rest in peace.