The Victoria Racing Club has unveiled a statue honouring national icon and Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Michelle Payne OAM at Flemington Racecourse.
Ten years on from her historic victory aboard Prince of Penzance, Payne’s statue was revealed in front of family, friends and supporters, commemorating her groundbreaking achievement as the first female jockey to win the Melbourne Cup.
Michelle Payne is one of only 4 racing legends that have been immortalised at Flemington Racecourse 👏 #LoveCupWeek pic.twitter.com/pWzoBFGfgl
— Victoria Racing Club (@FlemingtonVRC) March 26, 2026
The tribute recognises Payne’s outstanding career and the lasting influence her win has had in encouraging greater female participation in racing both in Australia and internationally.
Crafted by renowned artist Judith Leman and funded by philanthropist Lady Marigold Southey AC, the statue now sits among Flemington’s collection of legends, including Bart Cummings, Roy Higgins, Phar Lap and Makybe Diva.
Michelle Payne OAM said she was deeply honoured to be recognised alongside some of the sport’s greatest figures.
“My life changed in 2015 when I won the Lexus Melbourne Cup aboard Prince of Penzance, and it has been the most amazing journey since. To now have a statue here at Flemington is truly extraordinary; it feels very surreal,” Payne told RSN.
“As a young girl, the Melbourne Cup was the race I dreamed of winning and knowing that dream came true fills me with immense pride.”
“My hope is that everyone who views this statue feels encouraged to chase their dreams and ambitions, no matter how big they are.”
VRC Chairman Neil Wilson said Payne’s influence extends far beyond her achievements in the saddle.
“Michelle is an inspiration to countless Australians, and a powerful ambassador for female participation and the sport of horse racing,” Wilson said.
“We are proud to recognise Michelle’s achievements and her rightful place amongst some of the legends of our sport.”
“I would like to acknowledge and thank Lady Marigold Southey, whose generosity made this tribute possible and artist Judith Leman, whose exceptional craftsmanship has given us a permanent piece of racing history at Flemington.”
Artist Judith Leman said her love of racing helped shape the creation of the piece.
“I wanted to create a sculpture that not only celebrates an incredible sporting moment but also one that allows people to form an emotional connection with,” Leman said.
“Michelle’s statue is designed to represent and honour her remarkable journey, her inner strength we have all come to respect, and the inspirational power her Cup-winning ride has generated for more than a decade.”
