Phillip Stokes

Raised on a remote cattle station in outback South Australia, Phillip Stokes developed an instinct for horses long before he set foot on a racetrack.

Apprenticed at just 15 to John Hall at Morphettville, he rode winners across Australia before a bold decision to see the world transformed him into one of the country's most astute trainers. His travels took him to Bill Mott in America, John Hammond in France, and a formative decade at Japan's elite Taiki Farm — an education that sharpened both his eye and his philosophy.

Since launching his training career, Phillip has 1,560+ career winners at a 21% strike rate and 100+ stakes victories. A multiple Group 1-winning trainer and multiple South Australian Trainers’ Premiership winner. His team specialises in patiently developing horses that peak at the right time and perform when it matters — on carnival day, at the big tracks, against the best.

Star performers such as Mr Quickie, Hucklebuck, Instant Celebrity, and Climbing Star have etched his name among Australia's elite.

In 2019, Phillip expanded to a purpose-built facility at Pakenham, complementing his long-established Morphettville base.

Renowned for his patience, versatility across all distances, and exceptional ability to develop horses, Phillip Stokes is a trainer whose results consistently reward owners who back him. A genuine horseman in every sense — from the red centre to the Group 1 mounting yard.