Apprentice jockey Kate Southam has made the decision to relocate to Perth after a short stint in North Queensland.
The 27-year-old picked up a Queensland offer with trainer Carl Spry after riding Keep Your Feet at Ascot last June.
Kate Southam booted home 12 winners while away at McKay, Cairns, Townsville, Atherton, Innisfail and Home Hill.
It’s a full turnaround for Southam who has not been shy to travel and broaden her riding experience across Australia.
She started out in Tasmania, spent time in Melbourne before moving across the west a couple of years ago.
Southam cited family reasons as her primary motivation in returning to Perth.
“My brother is having his first ever child and we are super close,” Southam told the Races WA.
“It’s family first and I love the racing here. It’s really good to be back.”
Southam said despite returning home she doesn’t regret the time she spent in Queensland.
“I think it’s the best choice I have made in my life to be honest.
“I learnt so much and the people over there are magnificent and looked after me.
“I was grateful for the opportunities.
“It was a hard choice to make and it took me a good month.
“I was having so much fun and loved it there.
“The bosses I had treated me really well.
“But it’s definitely good when race riding to have that family support.”
Southam said there were many differences between races in Western Australia and Queensland.
“They race a lot faster,” Southam said.
“Faster pace, cutthroat in getting a spot, a lot quicker.
“You are forced to make those decisions much quicker which in turn has taught me a lot as well.
“I rode some winners and it builds your confidence.
“I feel like I am a better rider.”
After a short break, Southam rode in three trials at Belmont on Monday.
Her last ride in Queensland was at Rockhampton in February.
Indentured to Todd Harvey, Southam will resume riding in three weeks.
