Norm Chapman – a Flemington finale

Norm Chapman, who was the late father of Narrabri resident Helen Dugdale and moved to Narrabri for the last five years of his life, was an avid fan of racing.

The friends Norm made during his time in Narrabri will know that Norm’s knowledge of racehorses, jockeys and trainers was second to none.

Norm would peruse the form guide every day, and most days would put a $10 bet on his picks of the day.

Working out odds and what his winnings would be, keeping abreast of the latest on horses and jockeys, Norm kept his brain active up until the end of his life.

The friends Norm made while he lived here, notably at the Narrabri Bowling Club, the Namoi Hotel, Community Health and the Narrabri Men’s Shed and the people he met in aged care in his last few months, were an invaluable contribution to Norm’s quality of life in his later years.

“He really did appreciate the friendships he made here.

“Everyone made Dad feel very welcome and would look out for him,” said Helen.

“And they knew all about him and his form guide – and many would ask him for his hot tips.

“It should be noted, however, that Norm’s hot tips invariably were the favourite on the form.

“A couple of years ago we were chatting together about what he wanted to do with his ashes, and straight away he said the word Flemington,” Helen added.

Before Norm sadly passed away on March 17, 2022, at nearly 91 years of age, Helen checked with him again – “Just to be sure that’s what he wanted and again he said – Flemington.”

Norm also expressed a wish for some ashes to be scattered with his late wife Val at The Bluff at Barwon Heads, Victoria.

Norm and Val were married for 61 years.

“When we would mention to people this is what Dad wanted, they would treat the idea with amusement and scoff – ‘as if!’.

“But my brothers and I were just going to do it.”

The resolve was there, and the planning began.

Helen’s nephew David Chapman, Norm’s eldest grandchild, made some enquiries and the announcement was made – the family were officially granted permission to scatter Norm’s ashes at the Flemington racetrack.

“The Victoria Racing Club staff were very helpful and friendly, and the day turned out to be sunny, but chilly, in Melbourne,” said Helen.

“There were certain rules, such as not on a race day, no ashes on the racetrack, and a limit to the number of attendees, but the family got busy putting plans in place for the commemorative day.

Four of Norm’s five children, eight of his 11 grandchildren and two of his six great-grandchildren attended the momentous occasion.

Norm’s twin brother Bob Chapman, who had just turned 91, travelled down from country Victoria to experience the emotional tribute.

Mr Chapman said he “Wouldn’t have missed it for quids,” which encapsulated the feelings of the family perfectly.

Immediate family members were joined by a few of Norm’s nieces and nephews who reminisced that they felt he was like a father to them.

“Norm was well loved by all who knew him.

“He had something about him that drew people to him.

“He would make you feel special,” said Helen.

“Now every time we see Flemington racetrack on the television, we know that Normie is there, underneath the roses near the Makybe Diva statue.”

“Dad would have loved the whole event. It was a wonderful, memorable day.”