Jack Millard with Chief Havoc
John Reid – What a thrill,I remember,Mr Millard as a boy,dad spoke very highly of him and Chief Havoc.
80 Years Since Chief Havoc Hit Grafton Maiden
IT is 80 years exactly since the immortal Chief Havoc won the Easter Maiden at Grafton, launching a race and stud career few can match.
IT is 80 years exactly since the immortal Chief Havoc stormed to victory in the Easter Maiden at Grafton to set in motion a race career, and then future stud career, few can match.
The Grafton club is preparing for this year’s Easter Carnival with the time-honoured Maiden series again highlighted, plus a couple of other glamour races as a bonus for trainers.
Chief Havoc won the Easter Maiden on April 22, 1946 and few have left a mark quite like him.
His victory not only etched his name into the Grafton club’s history but helped propel him into greyhound folklore.
In 2026, the club will celebrate the 93rd running of one of its most treasured races.
Club president John Corrigan holds deep affection for the Easter Maiden, both from the stories shared by past generations and the races he has witnessed.
“Grafton has a proud tradition in maiden racing,” Corrigan said.
“The Easter Maiden is the first of the trilogy each year, followed by the July Carnival Maiden and the Jacaranda Maiden.”
Known as a walking archive of local racing knowledge, Corrigan’s recollection of dogs, trainers and iconic contests remains unmatched.
If there is a detail he does not know, chances are he has the number of someone who does.
This year, the Easter Maiden (450m) will share the spotlight with the Jack Somerville Northern Rivers Cup (450m). The heats of both will be run on March 29.
Dr Jack Somerville is held in high regard across the Northern Rivers and South East Queensland for his lifelong dedication to the welfare of greyhounds and the people who cared for them.
With backing from the Tweed Heads Coursing Club, the race now in its third year, continues to honour Somerville’s invaluable service to the sport.
“Jack was a genuine bushy who loved the country and loved helping people and their animals,” Corrigan said.
“We are so grateful for the financial support of the Tweed Heads Club. Their contribution allows us to recognise Jack’s impact on the racing community.”
The finals of the Cup, worth $25,000 to the winner, and the Maiden, worth $10,000 to the winner, will be run on April 5.
The Easter program will also feature the Fat Albert Memorial (350m) a Masters event worth $2050 to be run on April 5 paying tribute to Albert Gleeson, another influential figure whose contribution to greyhound racing is still felt today.