The former horse educator and apprentice, originally from Koroit, made the trip to the carnival from his Surfers Paradise home.

Mr Cox said being at the May races brought back wonderful memories.

He said his proudest moments included watching jumps jockey turned trainer Kelvin Bourke ride a winner home.

“I taught him to ride,” he said.

Mr Cox was apprenticed to Kirkstall trainer Jack Bence in the 1940s.

“He trained Formidable to win the 1948 Grand National Steeplechase at Flemington,” he said.

Mr Cox was born on the edge of Tower Hill and has fond memories of his time in the south-west.

“I used to saddle up a horse and lead two either side to the racecourse,” he said.

“I used to worry going over the Wollaston Bridge that we would end up over the side. I can’t swim.”

Mr Cox was the course manager of the Gold Coast Turf Club for more than 15 years and is a life member of the club.