Magic Millions Announces Leadership and Team Expansion in Bloodstock and Sales

Media Release - Thursday May 21

Magic Millions is delighted to announce key updates to its leadership and team, reinforcing the company’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and long-term growth across both bloodstock and emerging commercial opportunities.

James Hetherington has been promoted to the role of Bloodstock Sales Manager. A highly respected figure within the industry, James’ appointment reflects not only his deep-rooted horsemanship and understanding of the thoroughbred, but also the strength of the relationships he has built with vendors and clients across all levels of the market.

His day-to-day engagement with breeders, trainers, and buyers has given him a genuine appreciation of the challenges faced by stakeholders, allowing him to approach each sale with both commercial acumen and practical insight. James has consistently demonstrated a strong understanding of the industry and its evolving landscape, and his continued development in a front-facing capacity — particularly as an emerging leading auctioneer — makes this a natural progression and a confident step forward for the company. In this role, James will work closely with Operations Manager Kylie Adair in leading the Magic Millions Bloodstock team.

Dane Robinson will transition into a Bloodstock Sales and Property role, where he will continue to provide strategic input and support to the Bloodstock team and Magic Millions clients, while also focusing on the expansion of the property segment within the Magic Millions database. This move reflects a broader vision to further strengthen the Magic Millions network beyond traditional bloodstock channels.

“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,” said Managing Director Barry Bowditch. “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.”

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These updates, along with several key additions to the Bloodstock team over the last year, reflect a deliberate focus on building a strong, progressive, and globally minded next generation.

In a Bloodstock Sales and Marketing capacity, Annie O’Rourke brings extensive knowledge of the international thoroughbred industry, complemented by a strong educational background in sales and marketing. A graduate of the Godolphin Flying Start program, Annie’s experience has already strengthened the team’s global outlook, while her fresh perspective is contributing to the evolution of Magic Millions’ marketing communications and engagement strategies.

Another recent addition to the Bloodstock team, Tabitha Ridley-Thomas brings valuable hands-on experience within the racing industry through her time with Archibald Racing. Her practical understanding of stable operations and racehorse development adds an important dimension to the team’s ability to service clients across the lifecycle of the thoroughbred.

Lochie Bruce has also joined as a Bloodstock Consultant, supporting the broader Bloodstock team across client communication, research, development, and sales. His role is focused on enhancing engagement with Magic Millions clients, while contributing to a more structured and data-informed approach to sourcing and placing horses.

These exciting new appointments highlight Magic Millions’ ongoing commitment to building depth within its team. Alongside outstanding Bloodstock consultants Kylie Adair, James Dawson, Ben Culham, Adrian Hancock, David Houston, Tim Brown, Sales Director David Chester and our Digital team, Charlotte Geoghegan and Bryce Bevan, this group combines experience, emerging talent, and fresh thinking. Their strength and energy ensure Magic Millions continues to evolve with the industry, giving vendors and buyers alike confidence that the company is well positioned to drive its next phase of growth.

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