Martin’s life in the thoroughbred industry began at an early age. He was born and bred within two furlongs of Caulfield racecourse and was a regular attendee at meetings there with his father. At the age of twelve, he worked in stables before and after school as well as riding track work at Caulfield.

At the age of 15, he left school and went into the Public Service beginning his career in the Taxation Office. Having given up his ambitions to be a jockey, he realised that to be a successful owner he would need to study and that led him to an accountancy career.

As senior partner of Martin O’Connor & Partners he thinks it is fair to say his is the only firm of chartered accountants in Australia totally devoted to the Australian horse industry.

Martin is the author of The Australian Horse Owners and Breeders Tax Manual and is the Chairman of The International Home of Rest for Champion Horses.

Today Martin is the owner/part owner of 19 horses including Fields of Omagh and Infinite Grace. He has been a member of TROA for many years.