A Long Way from Wyandra

The classic story of a boy from the bush who worked his way from outback Queensland all the way to Royal Ascot.

As a kid growing up in tiny Wyandra, Peter Moody learned to ride almost before he could walk. Horses were part of life, and as a teenager working for local trainers, he learned many lessons—some of them painful—as he built his understanding of them. A mate's introduction got him a stablehand's job for the legendary trainer Tommy Smith in Sydney, and his life changed forever.

His journey was to see him learn from some of the greatest minds in racing, as he plied his trade in Sydney, Brisbane, and finally Melbourne, establishing his own highly successful stables, Moody Racing. One of the biggest innovators and risk-takers in this country's turf history, Moody won four premierships in Melbourne, the Mecca of Australian racing. But to the wider public, he's best-known as the man who gave us the phenomenal Black Caviar. His account of her career is unique. He was, quite simply, the man who knew her best.

From outback childhood, to strapper, foreman, and then on to premiership-winning trainer and the guiding force behind the most famous horse of recent times, and finally to his clash with officialdom that prompted him to retire in the deepest frustration, Peter's autobiography gives a hugely entertaining, fascinating, and authentic insight into one of the largest characters in Australian sport. While much has been written about Moody's career and legacy, it was fellow trainer, Caulfield Cup-winner Jim Mason, who perhaps said it best: "He's like a champion horse. Occasionally something comes along that's just better than everything else. That's Pete."

A Long Way from Wyandra is the tale of Moody's remarkable life and achievements, told with candour and charm.