Magics shake up – Hetherington given bloodstock promotion as Robinson spreads his wings

Magic Millions has announced a significant leadership change ahead of its upcoming national sales series, with James Hetherington promoted within the bloodstock team, while Dane Robinson broadens his remit to include real estate and property.

Hetherington, a talented auctioneer who has been Magic Millions’ NSW-based bloodstock consultant in recent years, will replace Robinson who will transition into a new role with the company.

Robinson will hold a joint bloodstock sales and property role, working closely with Donovan & Co’s Clint Donovan, himself a Magic Millions auctioneer who has quickly established a thriving real estate business.

Magic Millions managing director Barry Bowditch believes Hetherington deserves his promotion to bloodstock sales manager.

Hetherington, who was previously with Kitchwin Hills in the Hunter Valley, will work closely with operations manager Kylie Adair as well as the rest of the bloodstock and wider Magic Millions team.

“James’ promotion is a reflection of the respect he has earned across the industry through his horsemanship, integrity, and the genuine relationships he has built with our vendors and clients,” Bowditch said. 

“He has a deep understanding of the challenges faced at all levels of the market and consistently approaches his role with both commercial awareness and practical insight.

“Combined with Dane’s evolving role and the strength of our existing senior bloodstock team, these changes represent an exciting step forward for Magic Millions. 

“We are building a team that blends experience with emerging talent, and one that is well equipped to service both the domestic and international market as the business continues to grow.”

Robinson, who received overtures from rival auction house Inglis about relocating to Sydney prior to taking on his new hybrid bloodstock and property role with Magic Millions, saw it as a natural progression in his career.

“I think it’s where the growth in the business is for me. It’s certainly something I’ve thought about for some time,” Robinson said.

“When I initially came to work at Magic Millions, I always wanted to become more central to the industry, build relationships and continue to learn, and I see this as an opportunity for progression and a chance to diversify further within the industry.

“I’ve developed a very good working relationship with Clint Donovan, while also greatly valuing the support and opportunities provided by the team at Magic Millions.

“It’s exciting they’ve been able to create a hybrid role where I can genuinely get a blend of both worlds and contribute to the mutual growth of both businesses.” 

The leadership shake-up follows a number of recruitments to Magic Millions over the past year, with Annie O’Rourke joining the company in a bloodstock sales and marketing capacity and, more recently, Tabitha Ridley-Thomas starting at the auction house after an extended period with trainers Annabel and Rob Archibald.

Lochie Bruce has also been appointed as a bloodstock consultant while Bryce Bevan was last year made Magic Millions head of digital as the company attempts to reengage in the online thoroughbred auction space.