Although the rain disappeared just in time for Coonabarabran Jockey Club’s ‘Do It For Cancer’ charity race meet last weekend, the day was somewhat dampened due to a lack of attendees.

The sun was shining and the pink ensembles dazzled at the Coonabarabran Racecourse on Saturday, 6 April, but a lack of numbers at the track was evident – impacted by two days of heavy rain and the timing of the event after the Easter long weekend.

In spite of this, around 100 people attended the event and those who did enjoyed a great day of racing.

Race caller, Col Hodges, said many individuals from the industry were impressed with the quality of the track.

“A big talking point at the meeting was how well the Coonabarabran track handled the heavy rain leading up to race day,” Mr Hodges said.

“And despite the surface being heavy, was completely safe and very well presented by curators Kerry Vallette and Stewart Rodgers.”

The club was expecting high numbers after multiple races were called off for the weekend.

Coonabarabran Jockey Club committee member, Sarah Baglee said the lack of racegoers was disappointing, but she was unsure as to what more could have been done to draw people in.

“It is such a great effort to get happening, you would hope the community would be behind you,” Mrs Baglee said.

“We aren’t here to benefit from the day. We are here to give back to community.

“We tried to make money for a worthwhile cause, however, the donation will now be made from the Jockey Club, not the turn over.

“We want our community to have a diverse range of activities for people, but often it can be difficult to get the support.”

Many attendees did donate throughout the day, including children, horse trainers and a man who was receiving treatment for cancer.

Even 91-year-old John Hutton, the male winner of Fashions on the Field, donated his winning funds back to the cause.

Fashions on the Field Lady was won by Jess Skinner, while best-dressed girl was won by Chloe Wortt.

Mrs Baglee said the smile could not be wiped off young Chloe’s face, as she loved to dress up and hopes to follow in her mum’s footsteps as a strapper for local trainers.

Coming up next...

Coonabarabran Jockey Club’s next race meet will be held in July, while the ever-popular Coona Cup is set down for Sunday, 27 October, and will be held in conjunction with other events throughout the weekend, including the Yabbie Races and WACCI art show.

Mrs Baglee said the October meet aligns with other community events to draw travellers in for the weekend and experience all Coonabarabran has to offer.

After the October meet, structural work will commence at the racecourse.

The Coonabarabran Jockey Club is currently looking for younger members to join and would appreciate any volunteers, whether it be for five minutes or a few hours.

“Being on a committee is the best way to make a community better,” Mrs Baglee said.

“A town can be pretty boring without events and it can be a lot of fun seeing it all come together.”

PHOTO: Fashion on the Field winners from last Saturday’s ’Do It It For Cancer’ race meet were: Jess Skinner, Binnaway; Chloe Wortt; and the ever dashing, John Hutton, Neilrex.

TOP: Coonabarabran Jockey Club’s tireless committee members. Pictured (l-r): Dimity Douglas, Brad Edwards, Robyn Vallette, Georgia Hunt, Lindsay Hawkins, Stewart Rodgers, Brenda Grant, Kerry Vallette and Sarah Baglee.