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*UPDATE - ERIN HAS JUST CLAIMED AN AWARD (SEE AFTER THE ARTICLE)

WORDS: MARK BRASSEL

THE FUTURE OF THE ENTIRE EQUINE INDUSTRY IS IN SAFE HANDS WITH YOUNG GUNS LIKE ERIN LOWRY BEGINNING TO INFILTRATE THE RANKS

Erin Lowry likes to call herself a ‘freak’ and few would disagree – at the tender age of 23 she already has academic qualifications that defy belief.

Before gaining employment with Godolphin a couple of years ago as a stablehand and strapper, she worked as a Senior Animal Attendant and Retail Associate at Family Pets.

“I gained valuable hands-on experience in animal welfare, media management and assisting with veterinary appointments,” Erin explained.

Erin Lowry with her favourite Godolphin horse Zapateo, following the mare’s win in The Galaxy at Rosehill Gardens. Image by Bradley Photographers

“I worked closely with a variety of animals, ensuring their well-being and helping educate customers on proper care.

“But while I was working, I also juggled a double-degree in Animal Science and Zoology, with double majors in Conservation Biology and Marine Biology, eventually graduating with distinctions.

“This achievement provided me with a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of animal care and welfare.

“I love research and have always been willing to put in the hard work.

“I must say I’m a bit of a research freak and love to dive into it all – it’s a whole new world!

“My passion and interests for the animal industry developed during my studies in Zoology and Animal Science, where I became deeply fascinated by the complex biology and behaviours of animals.

“Throughout my degree, I discovered a particular interest in equine research, genetics and the medical aspects of the industry.

“The intricate nature of equine genetics and their potential to advance veterinary practices captivated me and drove a desire to pursue a career that combines scientific research with practical applications in equine health.

“I am eager to contribute to this field, exploring innovative ways to improve genetic understanding and medical treatments for equines, ultimately working towards advancements that can enhance their welfare and performance. I love testing the water!”

Erin lived with her family at Orange and was quite young before they moved to the Hunter Valley where she spent most of her childhood.

“We always had a horse around the place as my dad broke in horses and I had the luxury of having a horse on the property,” she recalled.

Erin Lowry with the James Cummings-trained Sphere – a half-sister to five-time Stakes winner Cylinder

“I started riding at 13 but never took riding seriously; we had pleasure horses and took them for trail rides.

“I began school early at four, so I also finished school early as a 17-year-old and went to Western Uni at Hawkesbury Campus.”

Racing NSW Workplace Trainer and Assessor, Tina Rogers is an ardent admirer: “Erin just completed her Certificate III in Stablehand recently,” she said.

“Erin's calibre of work is of the highest standard and she is a very dedicated employee of Godolphin. In her short time at Godolphin, Erin has shown maturity and excellence.”

And Erin has been noticed, having been a short-listed Finalist in the Stud & Stable awards last year.

In her role at Godolphin, Erin said she has encountered some of the best horses to come out of the Agnes Banks complex.

“Godolphin have been great to me and it’s amazing some of the horses I’ve worked with including Cascadian, Cylinder and Broadsiding,” Erin said.

“But my favourite has been Zapateo and she’s one to remember. She was very interesting, highly intelligent and switched on.

“She was very challenging, and you needed to harness that attitude – so many of the good mares seem to possess that.

“She was also quite calculating – many of the others couldn’t form a bond with her but I put a lot of work into her, and we formed an indescribable bond.

“I was so happy when she won the Galaxy at Rosehill. I feel that Zapateo was a turning point for me as I started taking a different approach to other young horses.

“I’m especially interested in equine welfare and performance; I really like to put in the research and explore new ways especially with genetics.

“It’s not until you’re involved in the Thoroughbred industry that you start to realise how big it is and how many people play different roles.

“By acquiring all this knowledge, I feel I can do my part in bettering the industry and my ultimate passion has always been in the equine industry.

“I’m open to anything work wise and at the moment I’m just letting life take me where I need to go!”

Erin Lowry pictured with her award

HOT OFF THE PRESS - Last Friday night (21st June) Erin won the '2025 Western Sydney & Blue Mountains Region - Trainee of the Year’. Erin now progresses to the next stage to possibly become a State Finalist.