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Goulburn Race Club, country racing and the Goulburn community has lost one of its true believers with the passing of Mr Fred Cooper. Fred, aged 90, passed away on Monday, 15th August 2022 in Goulburn.

A funeral service and wake will be held on Wednesday 24th August at Goulburn District Race Club from 2pm.

'Fred', 'Freddie' or 'Super Cooper' as he was often known was one of Goulburn's Race Club's biggest personalities and favourite sons.

The late Mr Fred Cooper

An Olympic Torch bearer in the year 2000, he also carried a torch for country racing, in particular the Goulburn racing surface and the ongoing potential of the club.

Fred's years of dedicated of service included 21 years as President, a decade as Vice President and a committee role for another nine. But mostly he was happiest when out on the track.

His unofficial role as "Lord of the Lawnmower" saw him mow the Goulburn track enough times to just about get him to Perth and back!

Fred was also a previous recipient of the Simon Nivison award for services to horse racing.

Whether he was helping the track team shift a rail, riding a mower or just yarning with a visiting owner, he always had the best interests of racing and the Goulburn club at heart.

Fred loved helping younger people in the industry and was a big supporter of their development.

Goulburn Race Club's CEO, Robyn Fife, summed things up for many associated with the tablelands club when reflecting on the contribution of the club stalwart.

“Fred has been such an integral part of our club for a long time, both at the old and new racetracks,” Ms Fife said. “His leadership and 'can do' attitude were contributions that have been invaluable to our club’s development over the years.”

Fred's ongoing legacy is reflected in Goulburn Race Club's main building carrying his name as testament to the countless hours he contributed. This December will also see the 13th edition of the race named in his honour, The Fred Cooper Cup.

Fred will be remembered for his depth of character and he made a habit out of making people feel welcome. He was a tall man with a knack for remembering the small things that mattered to others.

He hadn't got to the track as much as he would have liked in the past few years due to a combination of COVID-related restrictions and general health issues.

When he was at the races in recent years, Fred could be found perched in the judges' box giving officials and broadcasters a bit of friendly needle and generally stirring the pot!

Fred is survived by wife Jill, children Tina and her husband Rick, son Scott and his wife Jo, along with three grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Vale Freddie - a true 'two-miler' in life who will be sorely missed!