BERRIWILLOCK’S population swelled to five times its normal size on Wednesday as hundreds of people turned out to welcome home their favourite son, Melbourne Cup winning trainer Darren Weir.
Beaming ear-to-ear, Mr Weir was clearly emotional as he ambled down the main street of town, closed off especially for his civic reception, and was treated to a standing ovation by the 500-strong crowd.
Amongst the crowd were a huge portion of Mr Weir’s family, several of whom still live in Berriwillock including his father and brother.
Danni Ryan, a Berriwillock local, has known the Weir family for 25 years.
“It is just so surreal, the whole town has been elated since last Tuesday,” she said.
“We only have half a post office, no shop, no café and the pub’s closed, but we got the Melbourne Cup.
“You got to love Berri.”
Ms Ryan, an integration aid at Tyrell College, was at work last Tuesday when Mr Weir’s horse Prince of Penzance bolted home ahead of a world class field of thoroughbred horses and into the history books.
“I just lost it when it crossed the line,” she said.
“I was jumping up and down and screaming and dancing.
“I got a few strange looks but I didn’t care.
“This was so huge for all of us, not just Darren. It felt like Berriwillock had just won the Melbourne Cup.”
Prince of Penzance also made a surprise appearance at Berriwillock, much to the delight of the school children in attendance.
Ever modest, Mr Weir told the crowd how luck had played a strong part in the lead up to the cup win.
Childhood mate Max Nunn told stories from their youth of a daring lad who had a natural talent with horses.
Mr Nunn also acknowledged Mr Weir’s parents who played a strong part in supporting their son’s dream.
“Its been a long time since this town has seen this sort of turn out,” Mr Weir said.
“It’s really so great to see this, these are my people.”
For more Darren Weir coverage, pick up Friday’s Guardian (November 13).
