Targeted approach delivers Harvey the Victorian Breeder of the Year  award

Sydney-based owner and breeder Mick Harvey has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the sport, being named Victorian Breeder of the Year at the 2025 Victorian Harness Racing Awards held at Melton Entertainment Park. 

Mick Harvey’s success is particularly notable given it has been achieved with a  small and carefully selected broodmare band in Victoria, producing a string of high-performing horses in a relatively short period of time. 

“A big thank you to Woodlands Stud and Mark Hughes for sponsoring the Award, and also Alabar Stud, we’ve leaned heavily on their stallions in Victoria, so without them we wouldn’t be where we are today.” 

Among the standout performers carrying the Harvey breeding stamp are Kingman (Always B Miki), Rewatch (Captain Crunch) , Refusal (Captain Crunch), Elector (American Ideal) and Rescume (Betting Line), all of whom have made their mark on the track and contributed to an impressive run of results. 

 Speaking following the announcement, Harvey was quick to downplay his own role and acknowledge the broader team effort behind the success. 

“I’m very grateful, quite humbled and a bit surprised to receive this award,” Mick said. “We’ve only worked with a small broodmare team and stallions based in Victoria, so to see the results we’ve achieved in a short period is very pleasing. A lot of the focus has been on making the right breeding selections and identifying patterns that we believe give us the best chance of success on the track. It’s rewarding to see that approach starting to come together. We are just getting started!” 

Mick Harvey also acknowledged the longstanding influence of Victoria’s major breeding operations, noting the strength of the industry he has entered. 

“There are some outstanding breeders in Victoria who have been doing this successfully for many years, and we’ve certainly learned a lot from observing what they do. To be recognised alongside those established farms is something we’re very proud of. I want to thank HRV; the Vicbred futurity programs are a big part of why people like me get involved.” 

 The Victorian Breeder of the Year award recognises the performance of  Vicbred-eligible horses across the season, and Harvey’s growing list of quality performers has quickly established him as a rising force within the breeding ranks. While still relatively new compared to some larger operations, the results achieved from a  select and targeted breeding program are outstanding.  

“This game is all about people. I must acknowledge our staff, trainers, drivers, everyone behind the scenes, they all play their part in the success we have achieved. Everyone knows who they are, so thank you.” 

 With Mick Harveys continued vision, investment, careful planning and focus on performance outcomes, his breeding operation is already making a significant impact. This latest honour reflects that momentum. 

From Harnesslink Media