When Jamie Melham returns to Tour d’Horse in 2026, she does so as one of the most compelling figures in Australian racing, and with the horse that helped shape her journey, Dollar For Dollar.
A record-breaking, trailblazing jockey and reigning 2025 Caulfield Cup and Melbourne Cup winner, Jamie has reshaped what is possible in the sport, with her story resonating far beyond racing.
Joining her on the ride will also be her husband, Ben Melham, a champion jockey in his own right, with the pair riding together as part of the Victorian Jockeys’ Association (VJA) team.
“Dollars has a home for life with us,” Jamie said.
“He’s given everything on the track and off it. To be able to give him this kind of life, and now to bring him to something like Tour d’Horse, it’s really special.”
A Group-class racehorse in his day, Dollar For Dollar played a defining role in Jamie’s career, including delivering one of her earliest milestones, riding him to a win during Melbourne Cup Week.
More than just a racehorse, he became a constant, a horse Jamie trusted, understood and formed a lasting bond with.
Now retired and based at her property on the Mornington Peninsula, “Dollars” has stepped into a new role. Alongside Jamie, he supports young and up-and-coming racehorses, helping educate, settle and build confidence in the next generation. He is often taken to the beach, where his calm, steady presence sets the tone.
“Dollars is the kind of horse that looks after you,” Jamie said.
“That’s why I know he’ll be perfect for Tour d’Horse. What these kids go through is something most of us can’t begin to understand. To be able to ride him and help drive fundraising and awareness for KIDS Foundation, and support the work they do for these families, means a lot.”
Jamie, riding Dollars alongside Ben, will take on Tour d’Horse from 11 to 17 May at Belltrees Station, navigating tough terrain across the Upper Hunter Valley.
Jamie rides not only as a competitor, but with purpose as part of the VJA team, supporting jockeys and their families impacted by trauma, including Lucy Holland and her children, who have become part of the KIDS Foundation family and will be part of the Tour d’Horse community across the week.
Her connection to the cause is deeply personal.
“What KIDS does is incredible,” she said.
“You see the change in the kids. You see how much it helps them just feel safe again and feel like themselves. It really puts things into perspective.”
In 2026, she returns not just as a rider, but as a leader within the sport, bringing with her the horse that has been part of her journey from the beginning.
Together, they will walk the journey side by side.
Tour d’Horse is the annual major fundraiser for KIDS Foundation. To support Jamie and Ben, visit this link.
Link to images. Credit to Nicole Cleary.
Link to VNR: Jamie Melham to ride 'Dollar For Dollar'.
ENDS
Contact details:
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Melanie Mullen: 0418 331 994
KIDS Foundation, PR & Content Lead
[email protected]
