The 1853 “First Hunt Steeplechase Trophy” – offered for auction for the first time in 163 years – is a major highlight of Leonard Joel’s Asian Art, Classic Furniture & Objects auction from noon Sunday May 15 at 333 Malvern Road, South Yarra.

Ironically, the Leonard Joel’s sale takes place only a few blocks from where the trophy (won by colonial pioneer Alexander McLean Hunter’s horse Benedict) was originally presented – the former Prahran Course located in the precinct between what is now Toorak Road and Fawkner Park in Melbourne’s South Yarra.

Auction goers will have the opportunity to see the late Suzanne Cecil’s personal collection at her magnificent Toorak home for more than two days before Mossgreen transfers all the items to its rooms at 926-930 High Street, Armadale for auction from 2.30pm Sunday May 15.

Descended from Henry Buck – one of Melbourne’s most distinguished and recognised family names – Sue was actively involved in the family retail business, but had a lifelong passion for painting and the arts.

Although he won his last race 85 years ago before dying tragically from suspected poisoning, Phar Lap is still regarded as the most famous racehorse in Australian history.

Now, a unique collection of racing programs portraying much of Phar Lap’s racing career, will be auctioned from 9.30am Tuesday May 10 by Mossgreen at 926-930 High Street, Armadale.

The collection belongs to Californian Gary Madeiros who grew up near Menlo Park, where Phar Lap died, and was always fascinated by his story.

Richard Boland holds a unique place among single owner Australian art collectors whose works are now going to auction.

While many serious collectors work with advisers and dealers to obtain well-known quality pieces often to maximise investment potential, Boland’s main motivation for purchasing a work was its intrinsic visual appeal.

This might have reflected his work in the early years of television when pioneers were still learning about the importance of visual methods of communication.