Birchip’s Silo Art Begins

At just 15 years old, Ray Neville stunned the racing world with a Melbourne Cup victory.

Now, nearly eight decades later, his hometown of Birchip is ensuring that remarkable moment in sporting history will be remembered, with work under way on a silo mural in his honour.

The painting of Birchip’s eastern silo has begun, transforming the structure into a tribute to Neville and his Cup-winning mount, Rimfire. The project follows a years-long campaign by a passionate group of locals determined to see “The Boy from Birchip” immortalised in his hometown.

Referred to in the song by Matt Scullion as “The Boy from Birchip”, Neville’s story has become a lasting part of the town’s history. Soon, it will also form part of Victoria’s renowned Silo Art Trail.

St Arnaud-based artist Kyle Torney, who has completed several large-scale works across the Mallee, is behind the mural. The eastern face of the silo, which overlooks the saleyards, will gradually come to life over the coming weeks.
Birchip Community Forum president, Steve Nottle, said the project marked an exciting milestone for the town.

“Locals are feeling a mix of excitement, anticipation and reflection,” Steve said.
“The artwork will bring visitors to the area who will shop locally and support local businesses.”

The project has been funded through a Regional Development Victoria Tiny Towns Grant, Buloke Shire Council, Peter Russell of the National Hotel Bendigo and numerous community contributions.

Spanning four regions of Victoria, the Silo Art Trail attracts thousands of visitors each year, and the addition of Neville’s likeness is expected to draw even more travellers to the heart of the Mallee.

Born in Birchip as one of thirteen children, Neville left town at 14. He first worked for Lindsay Glen before completing his jockey training with leading metropolitan trainer Lou Robertson at Mordialloc.

On the morning of the 1948 Melbourne Cup, Neville learned he would ride Rimfire. A dramatic photo finish confirmed the teenager’s victory, securing his place in racing history.

Thanks to the persistence and dedication of the Birchip community, that history will soon tower above the town as a lasting tribute to a young rider whose extraordinary achievement continues to inspire generations.