Edward Langley Whitbread is buried in Woola Cemetery on the outskirts of Taree. The headstone describes his death on 12 February 1909 as accidental. Look a little closer and you may be able to make out a jockey’s cap and crop incised into the stone.
A local lad, Teddy Whitbread was born in 18881 and grew up around horses, at one stage working for Mr John Croad of the Macleay region, a well known racehorse and bloodstock owner.2
On the fateful day of his death Teddy was taking part in races organised by the Bulahdelah Jockey Club. “Bellbird”, his mount in the Flying Handicap, stumbled and fell before regaining her feet and bolting. The unfortunate rider was dislodged from the saddle, but caught his foot in the stirrup and was dragged some way along the ground before being dashed against the railings. When removed from the track he was unconscious and died a short time later. His body was removed to Suttons Hotel.3
An inquest held the next day at the Bulahdelah Courthouse found the death to have been purely accidental, with no blame apportioned.4
“Bellbird” survived the mishap and went on to race under the name of “Saucy Bell”.5
The Inscription Reads
In Loving Memory of
Our Dear Son
Edward Langley Whitbread
Accidently killed Feby 12 1909
Aged 20 years
Tho Lost to Sight, to Memory Dear
Author: Penny Teerman
References:
1 NSW BDM 24217/1888
2 Macleay Argus,Saturday 20 February 1909 Pg 10
3 Richmond River Express,Tuesday 23 February 1909 Pg 5
4 Dungog Chronicle,Friday 19 February 1909 Pg 2
5 Macleay Chronicle,Wednesday 7 December 1910 Pg 4