Numbers were marginally down from the previous year but takings were about the same. 

Mrs Hawkins said the installation of a new bar and the entertainment from Mount Isa DJ Akos Schneider created a good atmosphere for the crowd. 

“It was probably one of the most successful meets we have had,” she said. 

Race club president Clint Hawkins said the racing was impressive and that three of five races had nine horses competing. “It’s probably the best field we have ever had, it was really good racing there,” he said. 

“The track had 20 millimetres (of rain) on Tuesday, it probably was heavier but there were good reports from the jockeys. Some of the leading jockeys say it was the best it has ever been, and these jockeys have been coming for 10 years.” 

Entertainer Akos Schneider said he had an awesome night entertaining and hoped to return.

“It was probably one of the best rural races, country gigs, I have ever done. 

“The crowd was awesome.” 

Mr Schneider noted that the crowd at the race club was a much younger one later in the evening. 

The older crowd was at the drovers camp to listen to country musician Anne Kirkpatrick, he said. 

Between the five races other forms of entertainment included the fashions on the field, the 100 metre pantomime horse race, and the kids foot race. 

The fashions’ older boy winner was Ben Hawkins, from Herbertvale Station, and the older girl winner was Gabi Webber, from Longreach. The younger boy was Willy Bishop from Gallipoli Station, and younger girl was Maddison Saunders from Mount Isa. 

Classic lady fashions went to Lacey Ballard. Judges described her outfit as a cream and navy suit. 

The contemporary lady was Ange Jalali. 

Best millinery on the field was worn by Anne Webber.

The best dressed couple was awarded to Michael Reif and Lizzy O’Keeffe.

The best dressed man was Ronnie Dudy, who stood out in a red velvet jacket.