Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Near-perfect autumn conditions welcomed a crowd of roughly 3,000 racegoers to the Burdekin Race Club on Saturday 16th May, for the annual Burdekin Growers Raceday. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
Near-perfect autumn conditions welcomed a crowd of roughly 3,000 racegoers to the Burdekin Race Club on Saturday 16th May, for the annual Burdekin Growers Raceday.
The premier racing event drew attendees from across North Queensland for a packed six-race programme and a celebration of regional culture, securing its spot as one of the region's most anticipated social and sporting highlights.
Local produce and high fashion shared the spotlight alongside the track action. The Brown Brothers Fashions on the Field competition saw Nicole Stevenson take out the Millinery Masterpiece, while Zylan Dalle Cort won Stylish Gentleman. Monique Appi claimed the Showstopper title, and Kimberley Cockrem was named Classic Lady.
Meanwhile, the region's agricultural roots were on full display in the Produce Challenge. Rocky Ponds took home double honours for best melon and best capsicum, while Pirrone Brothers won best eggplant and Alma Organics secured the title for best zucchini.
The day culminated in an energetic musical performance by Trent Bell, keeping the large crowd on its feet into the evening.
Burdekin Race Club secretary Leanne Gudge said the months of preparation behind the event paid off seamlessly.
“It was wonderful how it all turned out. Everybody was there for a good time, and that’s all it’s about—to be able to get out and socialise for a day,” Ms Gudge said.
“I know I go myself and see people at the races that I haven’t seen for 12 months. It's a way of bringing the community together, which makes it such a wonderful event.”
The influx of thousands of visitors delivered a substantial economic boost to Home Hill and the surrounding Burdekin district.
“It’s not just the race club that benefits; you’ve got your fashion outlets, your eateries, your hotels—the whole place in general benefits from it,” Ms Gudge said.
Ms Gudge praised the enduring community spirit that keeps the event thriving year after year.
“It’s fantastic to receive the support that we do. I’ve been in the club 30-odd years, and it just gets bigger and better every year. The support never wavers," she said.
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