THE dust has settled and the flies have gone back to their shanty accommodation as another highly successful running of the celebrated Ewan Races concluded on Saturday.
The blazing hot weather didn’t deter thousands of race aficionados from turning out at the Ewan Turf Club from Thursday to Saturday as this particular event holds a special place in the hearts of many North Queenslanders as it’s one of the longest running race meets in the region’s history having begun in 1922.
Alongside the two day, 10 race program, there were many other events to keep those young and old entertained.
On Thursday night there was a childrens fancy dress party and BBQ and music by the Kye Cole Band, on Friday the Ewan Turf Clun Annual General Meeting was held in the morning in the Ewan Beer Garden followed by the first five races and more music well into the evening.
Saturday began with annual fun run and younger children’s sports followed with live music and entertainment, the races started in the afternoon, along with a Fashion Parade by Titleys Charters Towers, followed by more live entertainment and the drawing of the $10,000 Art Union raffle.
On the track it was the John Barr trained Issues that streaked to victory under the assured guidance of jockey Peter Cullen in the main race on Saturday the Ewan Cup.
Outgoing Club President Robert Kirkwood thanked the committee members and others who assisted with the preparations for the meeting.
Mr Kirkwood said further expansions have been added to the facility as well.
“New toilets were completed in time for the event, and I’m sure all those that came appreciated the improvements that have been made,” he said.
“The Club would like to thank those who have generously donated equipment and materials.
“And a special thanks to those committee members, club members and their friends who have assisted with their expertise and manual labour. Without the generosity of these people, the improvements would not be possible.
*The Register would especially like to acknowledge and thank Peter and Jenny Roberts for the archival photos they supplied for the Ewan preview that ran recently.
