Prepare your sharpest attire, because next weekend the Moree Picnic Races are on with the same winning formula that has been entertaining people for the last hundred years, but with a few little extras thrown in the mix.
Starting on Friday with the Black Tie Evening at the Moree Town & Country Club, six races will run throughout Saturday May 25 at the Moree Racecourse on Boggabilla Rd from 11am onward. Tickets are available online.
There will be no tickets for sale at the gate.
Speaking to the New England Times, Sandy Bailey, vice president of the Moree Picnic Races Committee, said the event will follow the same winning formula from previous years. But with a few extras thrown in, like the Friday night function, which has long since sold out.
“We got a really good response for the Friday night. It sold out fast and will serve as a bit of a welcome. Then roll into the races on Saturday,” he said.
“It’s our 100 years this year, and we are expecting a big turnout. The Committee has been really busy getting everything ready for the day to be special,” Sandy added.
Throughout the day, expect all the usual entertainment, the Fashions on the Field competition to be judged by Paula Joye, fashion expert and journalist, and also a trackside long luncheon.
Once the races are done and dusted, the night function, an Evening Dinner Dance starts at 6pm and goes until late. Musical artist Lisa Hunt from Byron Bay is back and ready to entertain the crowd as the main act this year.
According to Sandy, it’s not unusual for 1000 people or more to come through on the day as it’s the first of the Golden Triangle Picnic Race Series. Three race days are scheduled for the next six weeks, two weeks apart, starting with Moree and then Mallawa and Talmoi.
“For anyone who hasn’t been to one before, Moree is a great race day; it’s easy to get to, everyone gets dressed up, the crowds are always good, it’s actually one of my favourite days of the year,” Sandy said.
“Our picnics are a bit more like the B and S balls of old. There are not many functions out there where you can stay around all day and roll into the night function. You should get at least 12 hours of entertainment; you won’t be disappointed.” For more information, check out the Moree Picnic Races Facebook Page, or the Moree Race Club Website
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