I was well aware of Deane Lester’s towering reputation long before I met him in person for the one and only time. Like thousands of Australian punters and racing fans I’d been impressed by his easy style on radio, and the intelligent way in which he went about the business of analysing races. You could tell in an instant that here was a man who had a deep understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of racehorses. Dean’s selections were obviously the primary focus of those who tuned in, but his narrative always made for good listening.
One blustery day in July of 2015 I had the good fortune to attend a Melbourne luncheon hosted by the Victorian Racing Media Association. Members of that distinguished body meet from time to time at the Emerald Hotel in South Melbourne, a dyed in the wool “racing pub” if ever there was one. Association President at the time was the distinguished race caller Greg Miles, who also acted as MC for the day. While chatting with Greg in the middle of a crowded room, I spotted Deane Lester skillfully weaving his way between guests on his familiar wheelchair. It was a delight to finally make the acquaintance of a man who had the respect of every media colleague in that room.
Deane catches up with former legendary trainer Jim Houlahan. Sadly both have now left us.
Eighteen months ago I invited Deane to join me on my racing podcast. I was aware of his heavy workload and the daily routine required to keep on top of his serious health issues and I wouldn’t have been surprised had he declined. Not only did he happily accept the invitation, but he gave me a great deal of time in the research and preparation for the interview. Several trademark facets of his personality showed through clearly during the podcast - his undying passion for the racing game, an unwavering sense of humour, and his trademark stoicism towards a lifelong battle with spina bifida.
News of the recent diagnosis of Deane’s rare and aggressive cancer, left a pall of sadness in racing circles across the nation. All social media platforms were swamped with tributes. Close friends struggled to come to terms with it. The man himself handled it with great dignity right to the end. Family and friends expected nothing less. Deane may never have heard of an English novelist called Ursula Bloom who nailed it when she said “life’s unfair in the way it works out. It’s a game played without an umpire.”
To Deane’s partner Leanne and his mum Sandra, my heartfelt sympathies on the loss of one helluva guy. By way of a special tribute to a man who touched a million hearts, I’d like to post my 2021 podcast again. Some things may be a little outdated but it’s best left the way it was. You’ll find the link below. Rest in peace Deano.
A delightful photo! Deane, wearing the Gunsynd colours, was just 4 years old when his idol Roy Higgins gave him a few minutes on a busy race day in 1973.
Image 11 - Deane's concentration was intense when observing runners pre-race.
(Banner image - Deane filing radio reports from the birdcage on a bleak winter’s day at Caulfield)