Apprentice jockey Tom Prebble has delivered a deeply moving health update from his hospital bed just days after suffering a devastating fall at Warrnambool. The 23-year-old, son of Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Brett Prebble and Maree, is now facing a long and uncertain road to recovery after undergoing major spinal surgery.
Prebble, who comes from the renowned Payne racing family, suffered a horrific accident last week that left him with severe spinal cord injuries. While his parents had initially spoken on his behalf to thank the racing community and medical staff for their swift care, the young rider has now personally shared his first detailed statement about his condition.
“Nothing happening” below the ribs
Prebble revealed the seriousness of his injury in a sobering message.
“My key injury is to my spinal cord. At the moment I’ve got nothing happening from the bottom of my rib cage down through my body... currently no feeling or movement,” he wrote.
Doctors have cautioned that the coming weeks and months will be a waiting game, as his recovery could take many different paths. “My doctors say it’s now a waiting game over the coming weeks and months to see where things land. The message is very clear: to remain fully optimistic re: improvement but also be realistic and that there are a full range of possible outcomes from this injury.”
His future mobility remains uncertain, with no clear prognosis available at this stage.
Long road of treatment ahead
After his surgery, Prebble was transferred from the ICU at The Alfred Hospital to the spinal care unit at Austin Hospital, where he is expected to spend several weeks before beginning rehabilitation. “I’m told it’s likely I’ll stay there for the next few weeks before hopefully being able to move to a rehabilitation facility where I can start months of work,” he explained.
Prebble also detailed the extent of his injuries beyond the spinal cord damage. “My other injuries are a fracture to my spine at T5 that required surgery to stabilise it, a fracture to my neck that did not need surgery but will require a neck brace for maybe three months, some rib fractures and minor lung-related issues which will heal quickly, and some damage to my teeth.”
While these injuries are expected to heal with time, his spinal cord trauma remains the most pressing concern.
Gratitude for the support
Despite his daunting challenges, Prebble expressed heartfelt gratitude toward those who have supported him since the fall. “I know there’s been a mountain of concern and care about where I’m at and I’m very appreciative of that. I hope how I’ve explained it is clear and puts everyone in the picture. From here on, I’m happy to provide updates as my situation changes, but that’s where I’m at today.”
He paid special tribute to his family, who have been by his side throughout his ordeal. “Lastly, I’m blessed to have two of the best parents and sister anyone could wish for and they’ve got me through this first week. I’m so grateful to them for their love and support. That thanks goes out to everyone who has expressed their best wishes and concerns for me. It means the world to know so many people are behind me in my recovery and I know it will be a big help to me during the tough times in the weeks and months ahead.’’
A racing community united
Prebble’s fall has sent shockwaves through the Australian racing community, where the young jockey was highly regarded for his commitment and talent. With his family legacy and own rising reputation, he was considered one of the sport’s most promising apprentices.
His update has been met with an outpouring of messages from fans, fellow riders, trainers, and racing organizations, all expressing their support and encouragement as he embarks on a long and uncertain recovery.
The accident has once again highlighted the risks jockeys take every time they mount a horse. While the sport offers thrilling moments of triumph, it also carries the constant danger of life-changing injuries. Prebble’s resilience, gratitude, and determination to remain positive reflect the spirit of the jockey community, which has rallied around him.
Looking ahead
Although no timeline can be placed on his recovery, Prebble’s optimism and determination to keep the public informed show his strength in the face of adversity. He has made it clear that the journey ahead will be long, filled with rehabilitation and challenges, but also with hope.
The racing world now waits alongside him, hopeful that progress will come with time and rehabilitation. Whether or not he ever returns to the saddle, Prebble has already shown the courage and grit that define champions. His next race may not be on the track, but in the rehabilitation ward — a battle that will demand the same discipline and heart that made him a rising star in the sport.