Gus Makes History as First Queensland-Trained Trotter to Win Inter Dominion

Queensland Trotting History Made at The Creek Brilliant trotter Gus etched his name into the record books on 18 July 2026, becoming the first Queensland-trained trotter ever to win the Inter Dominion Trotting Championship. The victory came in the 50th running of the prestigious race, held at Albion Park (The Creek) in Brisbane. Trained by Chantal Turpin and driven by her husband Pete McMullen, Gus landed the A$500,000 Group 1 Inter Dominion Trotting Grand Final, holding off the find of the series, Gotfeelingsyouknow, with outsider Toro Stride finishing third. Rockinwithattitude and Im Bobby rounded out the top five. The win capped a remarkable chapter in a career that has already produced headlines across the Tasman. In November 2025, Gus stunned New Zealand audiences by completing a Group 1 double at Addington's Cup Week, winning both the Dominion Trot and the NZ Trotting Free-for-All. "I Didn't Think It Would Be on a Trotter" For McMullen, the Inter Dominion triumph was the realisation of a lifelong dream — albeit one he had not expected to fulfil with a square-gaiter. > "Growing up, you dream of winning an Inter Dominion, I just didn't think it would be on a trotter." McMullen was full of praise for his wife and the Turpin stable team: > "I'm so proud of Chantal and the team. He's taken a lot of time, hard work and patience and rewarded us." Turpin, who has nurtured the horse through his career, was equally emotional: > "The ability has always been there, but just needed to crack him. I just love this horse, he means the world to me." Return to New Zealand on the Cards The connections confirmed after the race that a return trip to New Zealand is firmly on the agenda. Gus's previous raid on Addington yielded two Group 1 victories, and McMullen indicated that another Cup Week campaign is being considered. The 2026 Inter Dominion series was held at Albion Park from 4–18 July, featuring both pacing and trotting championships. The 2027 edition is also scheduled to return to The Creek, with heats and final set for July. Gus's historic triumph adds another layer to an already remarkable story: a horse who rose from Queensland's harness racing ranks to conquer the biggest trotting prize in Australasian racing, and who now has his sights set on further international glory.