A defining moment in Michael’s career came in 2020, when he purchased one of South Australia’s most historic thoroughbred properties, Lakewood Stud.

In his first year training from Lakewood, Michael joined a prestigious honour roll featuring icons such as Bart Cummings, David Hayes, and Leon MacDonald by winning the 2020/21 South Australian Metropolitan Trainer’s Premiership, with an impressive 40 city wins for the season. Today, Michael’s stable offers the best of both worlds; a boutique, hands-on approach combined with a clear focus on metropolitan-grade racing. By capping his numbers at 40 horses in work at any one time, ensuring that each horse receives individual attention with tailored training methods, and that every owner can enjoy a personal connection with the stable.