Tributes for late racing photographer Dan Costello

Queensland harness racing is mourning the death of photographer and industry participant Dan Costello, who died on Tuesday evening following a three-year battle with cancer with his wife Gitana by his side.

Costello was the on-course photographer at Albion Park and Redcliffe for almost two decades, while also serving as president of BOTRA and on the Redcliffe Harness Racing Club committee.

In the past, he has also acted as a photographer for thoroughbred auction house Magic Millions.

“Dan was a mainstay at Albion Park and Redcliffe for many years capturing a number of historic moments in recent years,” Racing Queensland acting chief executive Lachlan Murray said.

“From track records, to individual performances and in more recent times the feats of our local superstars Leap To Fame and Gus; Dan was there rain, hail or shine to immortalise those memories.”

“Dan’s contribution to the sport is immeasurable, and I know he will be missed by the entire Queensland harness fraternity.”

Costello was awarded the RHRC Feehely Achievement Award at this year’s Queensland Harness Awards and received the Joseph Coulter Media Awards’ Best Published Action or Still Photograph in 2020, as well as the Joseph Coulter Best News Story of the Year award in April.

“Dan was a true gentleman and one of those people you always loved seeing at the track, invariably with a smile on his face and a genuine love for harness racing,” Harness Racing Australia CEO Richard Goodbody said.

“Dan made a significant contribution to harness racing and will be greatly missed.”

Harness racing participants will wear black armbands at Albion Park and Redcliffe meetings over the next week, with a memorial service to be held at Albion Park.