Filmmakers Seek Backing to Complete Darby McCarthy Project
A cinematic tribute is in the works to immortalise the inspiring story of Richard Laurence ‘Darby’ McCarthy OAM, Australia’s most accomplished indigenous jockey.
Titled ‘In a Life Time’, the upcoming documentary will bring McCarthy’s remarkable journey to life.
The project has a targeted funding goal of $200,000 required to complete the piece, but the documentary creators have secured less than half that figure.
Producers Chris O’Reilly and David Waddington are actively seeking financial backing to complete the project, bringing McCarthy’s story to its cinematic culmination.
With aspirations of gracing prestigious screens like Cannes later this year, the project promises to be a compelling exploration of resilience and talent, poised to leave a lasting impact.
Starting young in Australia’s dusty outback, McCarthy’s talent for horse racing blossomed early. He was competing in local meets at the age of 10, and his Brisbane apprenticeship launched him into stardom.
His prowess reached its peak when he secured three consecutive Stradbroke Handicap wins between 1963 and 1966, cementing a place among the top-tier riders.
McCarthy truly took the horse-riding landscape by storm, participating in his inaugural Melbourne Cup as a 16-year-old, a prestigious achievement for one of Australia’s finest.
HIs career boasts 30 major triumphs, including the Australian Jockey Club Derby and the Epsom Handicap double at Randwick. Victories in the Brisbane Cup and Doomben 10,000 cemented his legacy.
McCarthy served as a community leader away from the racetrack, contributing as an Elder in the Toowoomba Murri Court. His career was capped off with an induction into the Australian Racing Hall of Fame in 2021.
‘In a Life Time’ breathes life into McCarthy’s story through intimate interviews and heartfelt reflections from those who knew him best, both during his illustrious racing career and beyond.
The narrative of the documentary traces McCarthy’s illustrious racing career and his life post-retirement.
It shines a spotlight on his pivotal role as a mentor and the enduring impact he has had on numerous individuals, including notable figures such as Cathy Freeman.
Aboriginal apprentice jockey Ronald Simpson is set to portray McCarthy in the documentary.
“I knew of Darby McCarthy because not many Aboriginal jockeys have been as successful as him, but when I got a call out of the blue and was asked to do this role, I did some research and was hypnotised by his story,” Simpson said.
“I didn’t realise what sort of impact Darby had on Australian society. I feel very blessed to be a part of this film to be honest.”
Former prominent Queensland jockey Lyall Appo has been cast to portray McCarthy in his later years, while AJ Close will depict the Australian as a young boy at the age of 10.
Before McCarthy’s passing, producers Waddington and O’Reilly conducted extensive on-camera interviews with him, his family, friends and racing associates, including notable Sydney racing journalists Ken Callander and Max Presnell.
It was his desire to have his life story depicted on film to inspire future generations and instil them with hope.
McCarthy’s recent passing marked the exit of not just one of the greatest of all time in Australian horse racing, but a true trailblazer for Aboriginal history.
While his achievements went largely unnoticed by the wider public, both indigenous and non-indigenous, his story demands recognition as a testament to resilience, talent and unwavering spirit.
Unlike today’s readily bestowed title of ‘legend’ on Aboriginal sporting figures, McCarthy earned the accolade the hard way. From his first horseback ride on the dusty tracks of Thargomindah to conquering international arenas, his passion for horses fuelled a meteoric rise.
His calm under pressure and exceptional skills landed him contracts with renowned European owners, showcasing his talent on a global stage.
McCarthy piled up the victories in his time, winning the Brisbane Cup, Doomben 10,000, three Stradbroke Handicaps, AJC Tancred Stakes and, in one unforgettable afternoon in 1969, the AJC Epsom Handicap and the AJC Derby.
He was a true winner across loads of races that are now covered on betting sites and punters in Australia adored him, knowing his performances often translated to winning wagers.
However, McCarthy’s impact transcended the racetrack. He actively enlightened the community about the significance of Aboriginal culture, his quick wit even prompting him to correct an interviewer’s insensitive terminology.
More than just trophies, his achievements stand as a beacon of hope for future generations, proving that the pinnacle of racing was within reach.
His unwavering dignity and pride in his Aboriginal heritage offered inspiration during a challenging period, showing the younger generation that excellence and cultural identity could coexist.
McCarthy’s legacy extends far beyond the finish line. He was a champion jockey, a cultural ambassador, and a testament to the power of determination and self-belief.
While his passing leaves a void, the upcoming documentary serves as an indelible reminder of the impact individuals can have, inspiring generations to come to strive for their own victories, both on and off the track.