Lynne Mowbray | Retired air traffic controller Wayne Lambert 63 has been attending the July Racing Carnival every year for the last 35 years. Wayne said that he had heard about the Grafton carnival whilst working for the RAAF at Williamtown (near Newcastle). “In 1983 an opportunity came up for my friend Greg Clayton and me to fly to Grafton (races) just for the day, in a private plane,” Wayne said. “We loved it so much that we vowed to come for the rest of our lives. “On our second trip, we met a couple of men who we quickly fell in with, who also enjoyed a punt and a drink. “We’ve kept in touch with our now good friends Mick ‘Miracle’ Hull from Gunnedah and Vince ‘Diddy’ Weakley of Narrabri, ever since. “We have plenty of fun every year and the stories get a little embellished, but we always have a great laugh. “Unfortunately, about four years ago, my good friend Greg who was from Brisbane where I originally came from, contracted cancer and passed away. “I’ve spent the last three years living in Tasmania, but in May this year I decided to retire to Phuket, Thailand. “This is the first year that I have travelled from overseas for the Grafton Carnival, but it’s not the last,” he said. Over the years Wayne said that he has enjoyed being a part owner of several race horses. “About seven years ago, I started getting involved in racing partnerships,” said Wayne. “My first horse, ‘Equator’, with Gai Waterhouse ran in the best of company including Group and Listed Races. A few more followed but nothing up to that level so I just concentrated on being in partnerships, with good friends. “There is nothing more joyous than winning a race with your good mates, especially over the Carnival. “I only have one horse now, in partnership with good friends. “I haven’t missed a Carnival since the first year I came; and now it seems I know so many locals here in Grafton. “I’ve already begun to plan my trip for 2019,” he said.