Vale Dan Costello

The Queensland racing industry is in mourning following the tragic loss of Dan Costello.

Dan passed away on Tuesday evening, following an incredibly brave three-year battle with cancer with his wife Gitana by his side. 

Best known as the on-course photographer at both Albion Park and Redcliffe, Dan had been a mainstay with the camera in hand for nearly two decades, capturing every moment on the track.

Over that period, you could count on one hand the meetings Dan wasn’t in attendance, dedicating his life to service the sport he loved so dearly. 

Dan had previously held many different titles within the industry, including as the President of BOTRA, as well as serving on the Redcliffe Harness Racing Club committee.

“Dan was a mainstay at Albion Park and Redcliffe for many years capturing a number of historic moments in recent years,” Racing Queensland Acting CEO Lachlan Murray said.

“From track records, to individual performances and in more recent times the feats of our local superstars Leap To Fame and Gus; Dan was there rain, hail or shine to immortalise those memories.

“Dan’s contribution to the sport is immeasurable, and I know he will be missed by the entire Queensland harness fraternity.

“On behalf of everyone at Racing Queensland, our sincerest condolences are extended to Gitana and the Costello family – our thoughts are with them during this tragic time.”

Earlier this year, Dan was awarded the RHRC Feehely Achievement Award at the Queensland Harness Awards for his significant contribution to the industry.

As part of the 2020 Joseph Coulter Media Awards, Dan was presented the ‘Best Published Action or Still Photograph’ after shooting the inaugural standalone Kilcoy grass meeting in December 2019.

He was once again acknowledged in April this year through the Joseph Coulter Best News Story of the Year award.

Adam Hamilton’s story All I can ask for is hope published on Racenet in July, 2025 covers Dan's public battle with cancer and the generosity of Kevin Seymour as he undertook the fight of his life.

“Dan was a true gentleman and one of those people you always loved seeing at the track — invariably with a smile on his face and a genuine love for harness racing,” Harness Racing Australia CEO Richard Goodbody said.

“For many years, Dan captured the people, horses and moments of our sport through his photography, showcasing the industry from his unique vantage point. 

“I always enjoyed my interactions with Dan and appreciated the warmth and passion he brought to the industry.

“Dan made a significant contribution to harness racing and will be greatly missed.

“On behalf of Harness Racing Australia, I extend my sincere condolences to Dan’s family, friends and the many people across our industry who knew and respected him.”

First diagnosed with cancer in the bladder in late 2023, Dan was moved into palliative care in early 2025 after the cancer had spread, and was told not to expect to make it to Christmas.

With the support of well-known owners Kevin and Kay Seymour, specialist treatment on the tumours in Dan's body began to shrink, giving him a new positive outlook on his future.

However, despite the support of the Seymours and the industry more broadly, Dan’s cancer returned earlier this year.

Kevin Seymour paid tribute to Dan for his years of dedication to the harness racing industry.

"Dan Costello was one of humankind’s true gentlemen and it’s a great tragedy to lose him at such a young age,” Kevin said.

“Dan was very dedicated to our sport and a true professional with a kind word for everybody!”

Harness racing participants will wear black armbands at all Albion Park and Redcliffe meetings over the next week in honour of Dan.

A memorial service will be hosted at Albion Park, with further details to be provided once confirmed. 

As part of RQ’s Mental Health Support Program, industry participants can access confidential counselling and support services on a 24/7 basis via Telus Health on 1300 360 364.