BOURKE, AM, Dr John

BOURKE, AM. _ Dr John. The Chairman, Board and staff of the Victoria Racing Club extend their sincere condolences to their fellow Director, Judge Katherine Bourke, her sisters: Rosemary, Margaret, Jane and Claire and the extended Bourke family on the loss of their father Dr John Bourke. Dr Bourke was part of the Pakenham Bourke family racing dynasty and forged his own career in thoroughbred racing when he was employed by the VRC in 1963 as the VRC Veterinary Steward. During a long and distinguished career he was instrumental in the introduction of drug testing of thoroughbreds. Dr Bourke went on to become a world authority on equine medicine and the use and effect of drugs on horses. Dr Bourke stepped down from the VRC in 1997 leaving a legacy of great achievements, including enhancing the integrity of thoroughbred racing. Dr John will be sadly missed by all at the VRC. Our thoughts are with the entire Bourke family.