Irish jockey Adam Farragher has achieved a major career milestone, riding his first Australian winner when Spywire scored at Kembla Grange.

The 25-year-old has been working closely with Ciaron Maher, who admitted he made the young rider “earn it” before giving him the opportunity on Saturday.

“We’ve made him earn it,” Maher said. “He’s done trackwork every day since he’s gotten here… we’ve had him on quite a few slow ones, just to make him earn his stripes.”

Maher praised Farragher’s strength, versatility and sharp feedback, adding, “I think he’s got a bright future.”

Farragher, who first met Maher through jockey Jamie Spencer, had previously visited Sydney as part of the team travelling with Dubai Honour and was determined to return.

Spywire, a classy sprinter who placed in the 2024 Magic Millions Classic, proved too strong first-up despite a softening track.

“I was a little bit concerned about the rain… the wheels were spinning a little bit,” Farragher said. “You’ll see him to much better effect on a firmer surface.”

Carrying 61kg, Spywire ($10) defeated Hawker Hall and Couples Retreat and will now head to January’s Magic Millions Sprint.