THE countdown until racing fans descend upon Balranald for the “Cox Plate in the Bush” has hit the home stretch.
Gates open from 11am Saturday October 28 at Balranald Racing Club, as the club hosts its second race meet for the year.
Balranald Racing Club treasurer Donna Renfrey said preparations for the meet had been fantastic.
“It’s all been going really well so far,” she said.
“A lot of marquees have been booked this year, a lot of gazebos and also a few of the bigger tents for some celebrations that we know of.
“We also have quite a few packages that are a part of those gazebos, so it’s been great to see.
“It is also looking like the weather gods might actually shine upon us this year.”
The club will still be taking marquee bookings early this week but are likely to close Wednesday or Thursday due to catering purposes.
Ms Renfrey said although the committee’s hard work had them well prepared, there was still stresses until the day.
“Because we’ve been doing this for so long, it just seems to fall into place,” she said.
“We know what exactly we need to be doing and everyone knows their jobs.
“The committee all pitch in, and get the job done.”
Fashions on the field is one of the major drawcards of the Cox Plate in the Bush, giving the chance to show off a fancy frock or smart suit.
Those wanting to get involved are asked to register at the front gate by 1pm, with judging to begin following the first race.
Ms Renfrey said the fashion on display was rivalled only by the “gorgeous” Balranald Racing Club.
“There’s no dust blowing everywhere, it’s a lovely green area,” she said.
“We dream of having the 2000-strong crowd, but in reality, we could probably only comfortably host 1000.
“Because it’s a smaller venue, it feels very personalised.
“We have great facilities, great people and some great horse-racing on offer as well.”
Ms Renfrey said it was great to see visitors travel to Balranald for the event, including returning guests.
“You get to meet the trainers and the owners who come each meet every year,” she said.
“Seeing those familiar faces does a lot to help build the racing community up as well here.
“They all love coming up to Balranald, so it’s great to see and great to get that feedback from them.”
