NOT too many Queenslanders retain their base in the Sunshine State but make such a big impact on Victorian racing that they become major players through the spring and autumn carnivals.

But Robert Heathcote is the exception.

MICHAEL LYNCH reports in THE AGE that the Brisbane-based handler has led an interesting life, working in the newspaper business and as a travel guide before taking out a trainer's licence, initially to prepare the horses of his brother Warren, an art dealer.

But such has been his aptitude that he has sent out a stream of quality winners on his raids south, headed by stable stars Buffering and Solzhenyitsin, backed up by the likes of Fire up Fifi and Woorim.

As a result of his track success in the past 12 months along with his ready availability and adroitness in handling the demands of television, internet and print journalists that  on Monday he was named the Victorian Racing Media's Personality of the Year.