The Life of Bro Tommy Woodcock: Lessons in Devotion and Integrity

05 November 24

What does it mean to be truly devoted to one’s calling? The life of Tommy Woodcock, renowned for his unwavering dedication to the legendary racehorse Phar Lap, offers an answer that transcends the world of racing and speaks to the core principles of Freemasonry: integrity, commitment, and selfless service. Woodcock’s journey, marked by highs and heartbreaking lows, serves as a testament to the transformative power of these virtues.

Born in 1905 in the quiet town of Uralgurra, Bellbrook, Tommy Woodcock was the third child in a modest family. His early years were defined by determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Working as an apprentice jockey for Barney Quinn at Randwick, he tasted success on the racecourse but eventually faced an inevitable hurdle: his growing size and weight. This twist of fate might have seemed like a setback, but it steered him toward a new path—one that would change his life.

It was as a groom and exercise rider that Woodcock encountered Harry Telford and Phar Lap, a meeting that seemed almost serendipitous. From the moment Woodcock began working with the towering thoroughbred, a profound bond was forged. This connection exemplifies the Freemason’s lesson of dedication—not only to one's duties but to the relationships built along the way.

The story of Woodcock’s time with Phar Lap carries a deeper lesson on the power of steadfast loyalty. Woodcock’s habit of sleeping outside Phar Lap’s stable, ensuring the horse’s safety and comfort, showcases a level of commitment that went beyond the requirements of his role. This type of devotion is a mirror to the Masonic principle of valuing service over self-interest.

However, adversity loomed when Phar Lap was sent to America. Woodcock took on the responsibility of training the horse—an opportunity wrapped in uncertainty. When Phar Lap triumphed at the Agua Caliente Handicap, it was seen as a pinnacle moment. Yet, this success was fleeting, shadowed by Phar Lap’s sudden death. The grief Woodcock endured was profound; the partnership that defined his career ended abruptly.

Phar Lap’s victory in America might have seemed like the culmination of Woodcock’s dedication. But what happens when triumph turns into tragedy? Phar Lap’s unexpected death revealed the fragility of success built on external achievements alone. This serves as a reminder that the pursuit of glory without grounding can lead to disillusionment. For Woodcock, the loss was more than professional—it was personal, a stark reminder that dedication sometimes comes with a heavy cost.

The lesson here is clear: true fulfillment isn’t measured by fleeting wins but by the enduring values we uphold in the face of hardship.

The loss of Phar Lap could have ended Woodcock’s career, but it didn’t. Instead, it pushed him to rebuild, showcasing the resilience that is a hallmark of both personal growth and Masonic teaching. In 1946, he joined the Smithfield Lodge, aligning himself with others who valued integrity and fraternity. Woodcock was later recognised for his dedication and contributions when he was awarded an MBE in 1978.

Tommy Woodcock’s life came full circle, with both personal and professional accomplishments shaped by the principles of dedication and integrity. Even in retirement, he continued to embody the Masonic ideal of service. His quiet acts of kindness, like opening his home to children and apprentice jockeys, highlighted the unheralded rewards of a life lived in service to others.

When Woodcock passed away in 1985, he left behind more than stories of races won and lost—he left a legacy of commitment. The efforts of Louise Clayton and Tegan Ellis, who ensured his memorial would be preserved, underscore how the values he exemplified resonate beyond his lifetime.

The story of Tommy Woodcock is more than a tale of racing triumphs and losses. It’s a lesson in unwavering commitment, the kind that transforms a career into a calling and hardship into growth. For those on their own path, Woodcock’s legacy serves as a reminder: devotion to one’s principles, no matter how difficult, is what leads to true fulfillment.

Embrace your calling with the same fervour and dedication, and watch as it shapes not just your successes, but your character.

Story inspired by information gathered from - 

Museums Victoria - https://bit.ly/4eexUu5

Wikipedia - https://bit.ly/4htp5PL

Lodge Devotion 723 UGLV - https://bit.ly/3NQW82D