This month’s Mosman resident, David Payne started his career as a jockey in South Africa and is now a highly-respected trainer in Australia, moving here in 2002. He shares his local favourites with us, why he loves living in the area and some memorable moments as a trainer.
How long have you lived here and why did you choose Mosman?
My wife Merle and I immigrated to Australia 19 years ago and we looked all over Sydney and decided Mosman had the lifestyle we were looking for.
Best thing about the area?
Scenic walks, beautiful beaches, lovely village atmosphere. Easy access to city was also a plus.
Worst thing?
The traffic on Military Road.
What’s your favourite café/restaurant in Mosman?
DC’s, it’s an Italian restaurant on Military road.
Best coffee in the area?
Bacino Espresso on Prince Albert Street is one of our favourites, but there are lots more!
Where do you like to have a drink?
The Buena of course.
Any local hidden gems you’d be kind enough to share with us?
The Beauty point foreshore walk and onto Clontarf.
What’s your favourite room at home and why?
My TV room where I can watch all the racing and sports I enjoy!
What’s your perfect weekend?
Enjoying a good dinner out, walking our puppy and then Sunday usually a barbeque with our children and grandchildren.
And can you tell us a highlight or memorable moment from your career in training horses in Australia?
After arriving in Sydney and starting up my horse training career here, I was fortunate enough to be introduced to John Camilleri who gave me my breakthrough with “Unearthly” winning the Group 1 Flight Stakes at Randwick. My other incredibly special moment training in this wonderful country was winning the time-honoured Victoria Derby at Flemington with “Ace High” which was definitely a highlight in my career.