Prebble, the son of Melbourne Cup-winning hoop Brett Prebble and former jockey Maree Payne, said he also suffered a neck fracture, rib fractures, minor lung-related issues and damaged teeth from the fall.
His mount, Pulveriser, appeared to clip heels about 700 metres from the finish line in the last race at Warrnambool last Tuesday.
Tom Prebble is recovering from spinal surgery in The Alfred hospital.Credit: Getty Images
Prebble was flown to The Alfred hospital for surgery and was transferred to ICU at the Austin Hospital on Monday.
“To begin, I want to express my thanks to the surgeons, all ICU doctors and nurses and everyone at The Alfred who looked after me,” he said in the statement.
“I’ve been made aware of their incredible care, concern and support while I was there, and I’m forever grateful.
“At some stage today, all being well, I hope to move from the Austin’s ICU into the spinal care ward.
“I’m told it’s likely I’ll stay there for the next few weeks before hopefully being able to move to a rehabilitation facility where I can start months of work.”
Prebble was apprenticed to his uncle and aunty – training duo Patrick and Michelle Payne – at the time of the fall, and was a rising star in the young riding ranks, having ridden a treble at Flemington during the middle of this year.
“I’m blessed to have two of the best parents and sister anyone could wish for, and they’ve got me through this first week,” Prebble said in his statement.
“I’m so grateful to them for their love and support. That thanks goes out to everyone who has expressed their best wishes and concerns for me.
“It means the world to know so many people are behind me in my recovery and I know it will be a big help to me during the tough times in the weeks and months ahead.”
Racing Victoria stewards are still investigating the cause of Prebble’s fall.
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