Tributes for Jericho founder Bill Gibbins

Victorian racing industry stalwart and philanthropist Bill Gibbins has died after a long illness, leaving behind a legacy that stretches from the racetrack to veterans’ welfare.

Gibbins, a respected figure in horse racing and charity, was the driving force behind the Jericho Cup at Warrnambool, which celebrated its eighth running on Sunday. The race, revived by Gibbins in 2018, honours the bravery of World War I mounted troops and their horses.

In a remarkable personal contribution, Gibbins funded the prizemoney and trainer bonuses for the first four editions of the Jericho Cup. This year’s race, won for the second time by Aaron Purcell-trained Farag, marked the conclusion of Victoria’s spring racing carnival.

Beyond racing, Gibbins was a committed supporter of Australia’s veterans. In 2007, when the Rats of Tobruk veterans’ group could no longer maintain their Melbourne headquarters, Gibbins outbid developers to buy the property, telling the group: “I thought I’d buy it and let you keep it going, because we owe you a debt that can’t possibly be repaid.”

Gibbins’s charitable reach extended widely, including contributions to the Riding for the Disabled Association of Australia and Wheelchairs for Kids. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2021 for his service to horse racing, people with disability, and philanthropy.

He was also a prominent figure in the transport industry as the founder of the family-owned Full Container Load, later sold to Linfox in 2006. Gibbins and his wife, Iolanda, were life members of the Warrnambool Racing Club, and he was inducted into the Club’s Hall of Fame in 2024.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to Bill Gibbins’s family and friends on behalf of everyone at Racing Victoria and the Victorian racing industry,” RV chief executive Aaron Morrison said.

“Universally loved and highly respected, Bill’s contribution to both racing and the community cannot be understated.”