Murphy takes much from Aussie stint

Irish apprentice Oisin Murphy takes away fond memories of his summer stint in Australia, adamant he is returning to the UK a better rider.

And he also wants to return to Australia in the future.

"I have definitely come out of here having learned a lot and I'm looking forward to the future," Murphy said.

"I would love to come back if I ever got the opportunity again.

"You race every day here and it's important for me to try to ride every day.

"It's great going to other places but they only race twice a week. In England they race every day and it's like here."

Murphy, who is indentured to English trainer Andrew Balding, has spent the past two months with Melbourne trainer Danny O'Brien who labelled the stint a success.

"He's been a real advantage for us," O'Brien said.

"He's ridden well for us at the races and he's been a pleasure to have in the stable as well and I'm sure he's enjoyed himself.

"He's embraced Australian racing and the public has embraced him."

Murphy rode 13 winners from 89 rides. His wins included six at metropolitan level with the highlight his Listed victory in the Bagot Handicap on the Nigel Blackiston-trained Outback Joe.

The apprentice said it took him a little while to get used to the Australian style of racing.

"I had a bit of success and learned an awful lot about pace," he said.

"The main thing I've learned tactically is pace - where to be in a race."

He rates his winning double at Flemington on January 18, highlighted by Eraset's first win in 19 months, as the standout moment.

"I ride Eraset every morning and he's a genuine horse but people had written him off a bit," he said.

"I found the key to him a bit."

Story by Mathew Toogood, to view AAP story online click here

Photo by Bruno Cannatelli, to view Bruno's website click here