GREAT fun, thrilling race action and lifelong memories are three themes synonymous with the much-revered Ewan Races which are this year being held on September 25-27.
Staged at Stockyard Creek near Townsville, the two-day 10 race program not only provides the opportunity to have a punt but has also been the scene of many memorable family outings, reunions of old friends, and has seen the forging of many long-lasting friendships.
Ewan Amateur Turf Club secretary/treasurer Noel Brosnan said the days hold a special place in the hearts of many North Queenslanders and beyond as it’s one of the longest running race meets in the region’s history having begun in 1922.
“It’s an annual event for a lot of families. And it’s been great to see the children of past Ewan stalwarts bring their kid’s along to continue the tradition for what will hopefully be generations to come,” he said.
Mr Bosnan said the track should be in good condition due to a resurfacing at the beginning of the year and purchase and installation of $100,000 worth of water infrastructure.
“Due to the drought which has affected much of the state our water supply has been severely impacted and all our efforts this year were focussed to upgrading and improving our water storage facilities.
“This project has required the expenditure of considerable sums from our reserves and is designed to enable us to have water for this year’s meeting as well as providing a much better water storage and supply for years to come.
As well as the race action there are many other events to keep those young and old entertained.
Events begin the night prior to the race program on Thursday September 25 with a children’s fancy dress party and BBQ and music by the Kye Cole Band, and a Calcutta for Friday racing.
On Friday the Ewan Turf Clun Annual General Meeting will be held in the morning in the Ewan Beer Garden followed by the first five races and more music well into the evening.
Saturday begins with the annual fun run and younger children’s sports followed with live music and entertainment, and a Calcutta, then the races start 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.
An auction of donated goods will be held on Saturday afternoon after the last race.
Apart from a couple of picnic-styled race meetings, the Ewan Races are believed to be the only true thoroughbred race grass-fed meeting still being staged in Queensland.
