Balnarring’s Emu Plains Racecourse came alive once again on Saturday 7 November to launch the 2015–16 horse-racing season. A gorgeous day at this always-picturesque location, patrons rolled in by coach and car to for picnics and celebrations, not to mention a punt or two. 

A number of buck’s and hen’s parties and other celebrations also joined the festivities, picking the idyllic setting to frock up and enjoy a glass of bubbles. Race-goers enjoyed six keenly contested races, with a healthy turnaround of punters circulating through the bookmakers’ ring and tab throughout the day. 

The youngest horse-lovers were also well occupied, in between the scrumptious offers of the food stalls, making the most of the playground and new children’s rides, which were loads of fun and reasonably priced. Other facility enhancements that were completed in the off-season were also favourably noted, including the newly painted clubhouse, bar and tab building.

Saturday 5 December marks the day of the next club meeting, with the first race kicking off at around 1pm. A date traditionally used by businesses or work groups for Christmas functions, those interested in enquiring should contact the club secretary.

In January, the club has a meeting on Sunday 3 January plus the Cup meeting on Tuesday 26 January for Australia Day, which is generally bustling due to holidaymakers enjoying a break on the peninsula at this time, so patrons are urged to arrive early that day.

A: Coolart Road, Balnarring

P: 5986 3755 or 5983 9430 (Raceday)

M: 0419359851

E: balnarringraces@hotmail.com

W: balnarringraces.com

Facebook: Balnarring Races

Twitter: @balnarringraces