Auvilius had been a stable star for some years under the James Cummings run Godolphin Australia operation but after amassing over $3.6m in prize money it was time for Auvilius to have a career away from the track.
The announcement came late on Sunday that the son of Pivotal would be moving into a new role as the flagbearer for the Godolphin Lifetime Care Program.
Now an 8 year old, Auvilius had struggled in his past year or so on the track going winless in his last 18 after he had last recorded Group 1 success in the George Main Stakes over 1600m at Randwick.
Trainer Cummings, who had seen early success when joining the stable with Auvilius was more than complementary about the retiree:
"This was a horse who gave us all he had," said Cummings.
"So, it is only right that he should bow out with dignity. He was running well and, as he did from day one, he went into every battle in good health and with great desire.
"Horses like him never stop trying, so we have to know when to call time.
"He was an exceptionally talented horse. He was versatile and extremely resilient. He will be greatly missed, but he will always have a very good home."
Godolphin’s bloodstock explained how retirement would now look for the gelding:
"He will now graduate as a flagbearer in the Godolphin Lifetime Care program which fundamentally illustrates our commitment to the highest standard of care throughout their lives,” Walsh said.
"One of the key objectives of the flagbearer program is to utilise the profile of a horse like Avilius to help promote the versatility of the thoroughbred breed in a range of post-racing endeavours.
"A top-class horse of his calibre will continue to command attention and we look forward to exploring the particular equine pursuit that best suits his characteristics and desire."