The Toole family of Kambula Stud, South Australia, are saddened to announce the sudden passing of Brian John Toole (BJ) aged 85 on Monday.
A well-known figure in the thoroughbred industry, Brian was born into a racing family and learned the ropes under his father Lawrie's guidance as a youngster at Kambula Stud.
Following Lawrie's passing in 1959, 20-year-old Brian took over the reins at Kambula, alongside his then 18-year-old brother Peter.
With the help of Brian's wife Bette, the brothers grew Kambula into one of South Australia's most successful thoroughbred studs, standing numerous stallions and breeding top racehorses such as Favoured (STC Queen Of The Turf), Inner Magic (STC Reisling Slipper), Bianca (Black Opal) and Lady Fontaine (SAJC Oaks).
From 1995 onwards, Brian and Bette's son David joined them in running the family business. They kicked off the new era of Kambula Stud with the addition of dual Group 1 winner Blevic, who stood at the property for 16 seasons and sired 25 stakes winners, winning nine South Australian Champion Sire titles.
Brian and Peter were recognised for their accomplishments in the industry as recipients of the SA Thoroughbred Breeders’ prestigious Matrice Award in 2005. Brian was a Committee member of the SATB for 22 years and awarded Life Membership of the organisation. Brian was the proudest man at the 2014 SATB Horse of the Year Dinner when Blevic was announced as the Matrice Award honouree.
Retired from working on the farm in recent years, Brian has still been a familiar friendly face at the Adelaide Magic Millions every year, always keen for a chat and keeping the team on their toes.
Brian is survived by his wife of 60 years Bette, seven children, 18 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Brian's funeral will be held on Thursday, February 1st at the Kadina Catholic Church at 1pm.
