Australian and New Zealand horse racing has been rocked by the death of Melbourne Cup-winning trainer Mike Moroney.

Moroney, 66, who had been dealing with health issues the past year, passed away in his sleep on Thursday morning.

The Kiwi trainer famously won the race that stops a nation with Brew in 2000 at Flemington – and impressively, from gate 24.

Alongside training partner Glen Thompson, the duo combined for more than 2000 career winners, including 45 victories at Group 1 level.

‘With great sadness, [fellow trainer Adrian Bott] & I send our condolences to the family of the late Mike Moroney. A great man & trainer loved by all,’ master trainer Gai Waterhouse said.

‘I had a lot to do with him at Flemington, he was just a good bloke and a wonderful trainer. It is very sad,’ racing identity John Hawkes added.

Prominent breeder John Messara was ‘shattered’ by the development.

‘I’ve always found Mike to be a nice bloke, very easy to deal with, and he achieved so much as a trainer,’ he said.

Australian and New Zealand horse racing has been rocked by the death of Melbourne Cup-winning trainer Mike Moroney (pictured)

The Kiwi trainer famously won the race that stops a nation with Brew in 2000 at Flemington (pictured)

Master trainer Gai Waterhouse said Mike Moroney was a ‘great man who was loved by all’

‘I was only talking to him yesterday (Wednesday) as we have Plymouth running this weekend. ‘I couldn’t believe it when I heard the news.’

Moroney’s Flemington-based trans-Tasman Ballymore Stables confirmed the tragic loss on social media.

‘One of the stalwarts of New Zealand and Victorian racing, Michael not only had a special knack with horses, but with people,’ Ballymore Stables posted on Facebook.

‘He was loved and respected by his staff, his owners, his beloved partner Karen and his family.

‘Michael will be remembered for his kindness, his willingness to share his time, expertise and his passion for the sport of horse racing.

‘He was also a wonderful father, very proud grandfather and much loved member of the racing community.’