Etienne de Mestre

Etienne de Mestre was a famous NSW horse trainer, on the Shoalhaven. His horse Archer won the first two Melbourne Cups in 1861 and 1862. In all, he trained 5 Melbourne Cup winners. Some unwise wagers and ill health caused him financial ruin and in 1883, the estate was auctioned. For a time, he used Ulster Park at Fitzroy Falls, before taking up a small property at Moss Vale (Garryowen). He died in 1916 at age 84, and the family has some very distinctive headstones.