GOLDEN West Race Club operations manager Michael Plummer believes the return of trainer Johnno Johnson could boost the sport in Orange and the region.

Johnson, a well-regarded trainer in the Central West, closed the gates to his Towac Park stables just over 12 months ago and took a break from training.

His leaving coincided with that of fellow Orange trainers Brian Cornish and Pat Cass.

It was a blow to the sport in Orange but Plummer is optimistic about what the future will hold after Johnson’s return.

“Any new or returning trainer is great to have. It means there’s an increase in horse numbers and owners and participants in the sport,” Plummer said.

“To have someone of Johnno’s stature coming back, I think shows the returning strength of racing. Orange’s horse and trainer numbers are growing. We have an apprentice starting soon. The dam’s full, the grass is green and we’re getting ready for a great season.”

Johnson, who does not like to be in the spotlight, said he is happy to be back.

He renewed his license and last week took on two horses.

“I’m back,” Johnson said.

“About a month ago I decided I was ready to train again. I just wanted to have a break.”

During his time away from training Johnson has spent a lot of time trying to satisfy his travel bug.

His trips included driving the Great Ocean Road and going to Bourke but he was never too far away from the sport he loves.

His travels took him to the Birdsville Races, the Louth Races and he helped Mudgee trainer Tracey Bartley at the Stradbroke Handicap in Brisbane.

“I had the travel bug and now I’ve done that and I’m ready to come back,” Johnson said.

The Orange trainer said it will be a few months before the horses he has are ready to race.

He said a number of horse owners had spoken to him about taking on their charges but he wasn’t willing to have too many.

“Four or five would be enough,” Johnson said.

“I just need something to make me get up in the morning.”

Plummer said Johnson’s return was a positive step for racing in the region as it tries to come back from the equine influenza outbreak and ongoing drought.

“I think it will attract people back to the game who may have left for a while,” Plummer said.

“Hopefully with Johnno coming back, it’s a sign of things to come. I think it will also give some healthy competition as well.”

The next GWRC meeting in Orange will be on September 28, followed by the Melbourne Cup race day on November 4.