Former greyhound trainer Wally Elmer passed away peacefully on 29 March, aged 82.
Wally was involved in greyhound racing for about 40 years, enduring two lengthy stints as a greyhound trainer during that period.
“Dad won a Queensland Cup at Beenleigh with a dog called Northop Tuesday, who was also favourite in a Melbourne Cup in the 1970s,” said son Troy Elmer.
“Northop Tuesday also ran 2nd and 3rd in the Tweed Heads Galaxy in consecutive years. The Galaxy was a race dad took a keen interest in.”
“Dad also won a Shepparton Cup with Morning Glow (1974) and a Geelong Cup with Zero Ranger (1975).”
“That was his most successful period as a trainer, although he was the Healesville Trainer of the Year in 2005/06, having 14 winners that season, with (then Healesville GM) Cynthia O’Brien and legendary race caller Ron Hawkswell saying kind words about him at the official presentation.
“He was also a mentor to Paul Abela, who is one of Victoria’s leading trainers today.”
Greyhound racing aside, Wally had a passion for a number of other sports, including time spent as a professional cyclist.
People who knew him weren’t sure if his tight calves came from his cycling or walking his greyhounds.
Wally was a life member and former president of the Melton Cricket Club, and he was heavily involved in netball through wife Dotty, who passed away two years ago.
Wally’s life was a tale of amazing resilience and determination. He suffered his first heart attack at age 38, and survived two triple bypasses, continuously beating the odds which saw him live into his early eighties.
In delivering Wally’s eulogy, granddaughter Ash spoke with great fondness.
“Wal leaves behind a legacy of courage, perseverance, and unwavering determination,” she said.
“A legacy that will continue to illuminate our lives.
“Wally suffered for a long time. His passing was very peaceful, and if he could have stayed with us forever, he would have.
“Wal will forever be remembered as a man who modelled strength, independence, compassion and empathy. Most importantly Wally was a very humble man and never big noted about his achievements. We all loved him dearly.”
A funeral was held for Wally on Monday 8 April in his home town of Bacchus Marsh.
