A former Australian jockey has died aged 43 after being kicked in the head by a horse at a Melbourne training facility.

Peta Tait was struck whilst working at Cranbourne Training Centre in the city's south-east earlier this week. The incident occurred as she carried out her duties for trainers Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young.

Colleagues have described the accomplished horsewoman as "one in a million" following the tragedy. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, though it is understood to be a tragic accident.

Tait enjoyed a successful career in the saddle, riding 48 winners during her 21-year stint as a jockey from 1998 to 2019. Following her retirement from race-riding, she continued her involvement in the sport as a stable hand and work rider.

Peta Tait, seen here with her trainer and 'father figure' Reg Manning

Emergency services attended the scene and paramedics attempted CPR, but were unable to save her.

She was conducting her regular duties when the fatal incident occurred.

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Trainer Reg Manning, who gave Tait her first winner aged 16, said: "It was just a freak accident. It was not as if she did anything wrong, or it was a bad horse, it just kicked out for whatever reason."

The trainers released a statement saying: "Peta was an incredible person who was dedicated to her role and will leave a longstanding legacy.

"We are heartbroken by her loss."

Jockey Daniel Moor paid tribute on X, writing: "It's difficult to find the words to describe a one in a million person, but that's exactly who Peta was.

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She won 48 races in her 21 year career

"So dedicated to her job and always so helpful. Constantly putting others before herself. She will be very sadly missed."

Manning spoke emotionally about his relationship with Tait, revealing: "I couldn't have kids, but I have got three girls that all call me 'Dad' from different families.

"We helped all of them growing up and Peta was no different - we were very close."

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He added that fellow trainers Ian and Jan Hutchins were also like family to her, saying: "They treated her very well, and they will be just as sad as I am that we have lost our little girl."

Racing Victoria chief executive Aaron Morrison acknowledged the dangers faced by stable staff, stating: "This terrible accident serves as an untimely reminder of the thousands of unsung heroes working in stables each day to provide the best possible care to our racehorses."

She was working at Cranbourne Training Centre when the fatal incident occurred

Morrison added: "Peta made a valuable contribution to Victorian racing over more than 25 years and her sudden passing will be felt by many, particularly in Cranbourne where she was based."

The tragedy comes as the racing world mourns two other significant losses. British trainer Barry Hills died aged 88 last week, whilst American handler D Wayne Lukas passed away aged 89.