Business Feature
The Dalby Amateur Picnic Race Committee (DAPRC) are busily working to create an exciting, unique event for this year’s Dalby Picnic Race Day on Saturday, April 29.
An anticipated 3,500 strong crowd are expected for the 105th running of the event which will feature a seven-race program with more than $70,000 in prize money and bonuses on offer.
DAPRC committee president Jane Edwards said while over the years there have been changes to the structure of the event, the community spirit and support for the event has stayed prominent.
“Dalby’s early meetings were run over two consecutive days; horses must have started on the first day to be eligible to race on the second,” Mrs Edwards said.
“The social component of the weekend included a frantic round of dinner parties, a Calcutta, dinner dance and formal ball,” she said.
“Some things that have never changed include the excitement, community spirit and a great day of racing.”
Races will be broadcast on Sky Racing and boast TAB coverage, along with being shown on the Warrego Water Big Screen. There will also be food stalls and the popular BMO Calcutta, where guests have the chance to own a horse for a race.
Mrs Edwards said while the committee is excited to offer a fantastic race program with TAB backing for the punters, they haven’t forgotten those who come to the races for the fashions.
The Dalby Shopping World Fashions on the Field will offer prizes and cash totalling $7500 across five categories: Katrina’s Hair Design Classic Lady, Eyecare Eyewear Contemporary Fashion, Telstra Best Dressed Couple, Amcal+ Best Headwear and Lowes Best Dressed Gentleman.
“Our judges will be looking for outfits that fall squarely into the category of race wear and those which are well suited to the season.”
She said given the autumn weather can be unpredictable it’s also a good idea for Fashions entrants to include some options that enable you to adjust your outfit slightly to suit the climatic conditions on the day
Mrs Edwards said marquee packages are also a prominent feature of race day.
“In order to cater for the large crowd expected at Bunya Park, several function areas will be available. All-inclusive packages, serving Brown Brothers wines and Carlton United beers, are available in the Oakey Beef Finishing Post Marquee and the Home Straight Lounge.
“For race goers looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, the Black Toyota Marquee is the perfect venue for large groups that want flexibility and a fabulous family friendly precinct.
“The all-inclusive party place for the younger race going crowd is definitely going to be the Windsor Treehouse again this year. Tickets are limited for these packages and I urge race-goers to get in as soon as possible, to avoid missing out.”
Tickets are on sale now at Black Toyota Dalby and online at www.dalbypicnicraces.org.au See their Facebook page for regular updates and event details.