The Australian and international thoroughbred racing communities are united in grief following the passing of Robert Burnet, a respected figure in racing media publishing. Burnet’s distinguished career seamlessly integrated a family heritage in publishing, active involvement in breeding and racing partnerships, and a profound, enduring connection with the global thoroughbred industry.
Operating ThoroughbredNEWS, Burnet founded and expertly managed an independent news platform for the industry. This venture was underpinned by more than three decades of experience working with industry partners and distributing news content from across the world.
His professional life led him to media centres and racing hubs globally, including extensive periods in Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, where he became a familiar and esteemed presence within the international racing fraternity.
A legacy in publishing and an international perspective were foundational to Burnet’s career. Robert’s deep-seated passion for publishing, breeding, and thoroughbred racing was partly shaped by his familial background. His father, Alan Burnet (CBE), was a celebrated newspaper figure in New Zealand, and the family’s association with Windsor Park Stud in Cambridge, New Zealand, underscored their significant involvement in the breeding and racing world.
This intersection of publishing, breeding, and racing became a pivotal aspect of Robert’s professional journey and, ultimately, his commitment to ThoroughbredNEWS.
Through his ownership and management of ThoroughbredNEWS, Burnet collaborated closely with industry partners, disseminating news content from the international racing circuit.
For over three decades, the platform has been an integral component of the specialist racing media, connecting readers with news and developments from an industry whose participants, events, and interests extend well beyond national borders.
Burnet’s enduring association with ThoroughbredNEWS remains central to his professional legacy and his considerable contribution to the communication of thoroughbred racing news.
It was Robert’s clear vision for ThoroughbredNEWS that formed the central focus of his professional life. Similar to many early online publishers, success was not easily attained nor was it immediate. However, his persistent drive and passion for an industry he adored, alongside his strong belief that online publishing was the future for industry news, were evident in all his undertakings.
Robert was never hesitant to voice his opinions on subjects he felt passionately about, and history has frequently proven him correct. He often expressed his frustration that racing executives seemed incapable of seeing or sharing his vision for online publishing and ThoroughbredNEWS.
In the initial stages of online media, Robert played a crucial role in negotiating publishing and live-streaming agreements with the Hong Kong Jockey Club. This initiative resulted in enhanced online visibility for Hong Kong racing, not only within Australia but also in a broader global market, coinciding with a rapid surge in commingling turnover.
This marked the beginning of a highly successful strategy that is now emulated by other global rights holders.
A recognisable figure on the international racing circuit, Robert was a consistent presence in media rooms across the global thoroughbred racing circuit. His professional relationships and industry connections accurately reflected the worldwide nature of racing and the diverse individuals who contribute to the sport.
Robert quickly recognised the importance of travelling to and supporting other racing jurisdictions, such as New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, and Hong Kong, all viewed through the lens of the ThoroughbredNEWS platform.
Those who knew him will also fondly remember the distinctive personality he brought to his work and relationships. A great sense of humour and an inimitable sense of style were among his defining characteristics, with his Panama hat becoming a signature element of his attire.
These personal qualities made Robert a recognisable and memorable figure among colleagues and industry acquaintances across the racing world. “Robert was always the best-dressed racing journalist in the media room. While many of us had just one suitcase, Rob would turn up at the airport with at least two large cases and many suit or sports coat bags and his roller business case. Rob had a different outfit for every occasion and when combined with impeccable taste in socks and different shoes he put the rest of us one-outfit, boring journalists to shame! To say Rob was a dapper dresser is an understatement.” Gary Crispe, Executive Director of Racing and Sports and close confidante.
Robert’s passing represents a profound loss for those who knew him personally and for colleagues across the thoroughbred racing and media communities. “Rob embraced Asian racing and saw a market. He was actively involved with the Singapore Turf Club during their years of international racing, but more so in Hong Kong where he had the ears of leading administrators and would not miss one of their international meetings, be that in December or April-May.” Craig Brennan, senior journalist formerly with the Singapore Turf Club and now Racing and Sports.
The thoroughbred racing community extends its deepest thoughts and condolences to Robert’s family, friends, colleagues, and all who shared his journey through the dynamic world of thoroughbred racing. Robert Burnet will be remembered for his significant contributions to racing media, his extensive connections within the international thoroughbred industry, and the distinctive personality he brought to the people and places that shaped his professional life. Explore the latest betting markets for all major races.