The skeleton of Phar Lap, Australia's favourite racehorse, went on display next to his hide in Melbourne Museum today. It was reassembled and installed yesterday evening by MV preparators, conservators and installers, under the guidance of a Te Papa representative.
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Phar Lap's skeleton is on loan from Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington. This is the first time the racing legend's hide and skeleton have been reunited since his untimely death in 1932.
The special exhibit is in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the running of the Melbourne Cup as well as the 80th anniversary of Phar Lap's 1930 Melbourne Cup win.
“Phar Lap had a remarkable career as a racehorse and this historic display is a fitting tribute to his significant place in Victoria’s racing history,” said Dr Patrick Greene, CEO of Museum Victoria. “I’m sure this will make Melbourne Museum’s most popular exhibit an even greater draw card.”
Phar Lap's skeleton will be on display in the Melbourne Gallery until 31 January 2011.