Nineteen-year-old Tasmanian apprentice Jabez Johnstone reached another career milestone yesterday, guiding four-year-old mare Duchess Zou to victory at Sandown and registering the 80th win of his burgeoning career.

More significantly, the win has helped pave the way for the talented young rider to take the next major step in his career, with Johnstone set to relocate to Melbourne under the guidance of leading trainer Ciaron Maher.

Currently restricted to just three riding workdays per week in Victoria, Johnstone will now officially transfer his apprenticeship from Tasmanian trainer Sarah Cotton to Maher’s powerhouse Cranbourne stable on a three-month loan—an opportunity that promises invaluable experience in one of Australia’s premier racing environments.

A natural lightweight with an innate feel in the saddle, Johnstone only began race riding 18 months ago, yet his rise has been nothing short of remarkable. He now follows in the footsteps of his sister, Taylor Johnstone, who has successfully established herself after making the move to Adelaide.

In his first full season in the saddle, Johnstone holds a commanding and seemingly unassailable lead in the Tasmanian apprentice premiership. His 48 wins in the state this season also place him second on the overall jockeys’ standings, trailing only Erica Byrne Burke.

The move to a major mainland stable marks a significant opportunity for one of Tasmania’s brightest emerging riding talents, offering the perfect platform to further refine his craft and continue his rapid ascent in Australian racing