Corbett joins Alma Vale management team

The Hunter Valley-based Alma Vale Thoroughbreds has appointed Darren Corbett as its new assistant stud manager as the replacement for the departing Oscar Engelbrecht.

Corbett will start in the role on August 3 and oversee daily bloodstock operations, horse care and the continued development of the Scone farm’s breeding and sales programs.

The Irishman has more than 20 years’ experience in the thoroughbred industry, having worked at Ballyhimikin Stud and The National Stud in England before relocating to Australia in 2013.

After arriving in Australia for a yearling season at Vinery Stud in 2011, Corbett worked as foreman at Malua Racing before spending eight years at Segenhoe Stud under Peter O’Brien and the past four years as assistant manager at Kingstar Farm.

His experience includes yearling preparation, broodmare and stallion management, foaling and farm operations, and he helped prepare Group 1 winners including Joliestar, King’s Legacy, Merchant Navy, In Secret and Devil Night.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Darren to the Alma Vale family,” Alma Vale Thoroughbreds general manager Verna Metcalfe said.

“His extensive knowledge of all aspects of the industry, paired with his dedication to commercial excellence, aligns perfectly with our vision for the future. Away from the farm, Darren is a devoted husband and proud father of two, and we are equally excited to welcome him and his family to our local community.”