Boulia’s Racecourse Reserve upgrade projects have hit the home straight and the official opening is set for May 31 ahead of the camel races in July.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Boasting the longest camel race in Australia with the 1500m cup final, the Boulia Racecourse Reserve also hosts local horse racing.
The Boulia Easter Race day will include a $45,000 five-race program, with fashions on the field, live entertainment, jumping castle for the children and genuine outback hospitality.
Council Director of Works and Operations Harin Karra said the upgrade projects were expected to be completed by the Easter weekend.
“We have had a great deal of help to achieve the successful outcome of both these project.
As a result I’m pleased to say, we are within time and budget limits,” Mr Karra said.
The new prefabricated jockey change room arrived a few weeks ago and services are currently being installed.
The facility also boasts a secretary’s room, stewards room, along with male and female amenities and a shared kitchen area.
Mr Karra said recognition should also be given to the many volunteers, and the committee members from the camel races and turf club, who were instrumental in the removal of the former jockey shed.
Also part of the upgrade was the replacement of 1.5km of outside running rail around the track and some fencing repairs.
Both upgrades have been made possible with the assistance of the Drought Communities- Funding Programme as well as Council contribution.
The estimated cost of these projects is over $500,000.
“These improvements will bring the Boulia Racecourse in to line with Queensland Racing obligations,” Mr Karra said.
The Mayor of Boulia, Rick Britton said we are lucky to have such a beautiful natural track of sandy soil.
“We’re looking forward to hosting these upcoming events and would love to see as many people from the region here to enjoy our town,” Cr Britton said.
The annual Boulia Easter races will be held on Sunday, March 31 this year with the first of five races starting at 1pm and the Gymkhana afrom 8-11.30am.
The Campdraft has been cancelled due to the drought.
The entry fee is $10.