SINCE 1922 the iconic Ewan races has provided families and friends with a great meeting spot to catch-up while enjoying some great entertainment and laughs off-track and top notch action on it.
Unfortunately due to the ongoing drought which has done a number on the track at Stockyard Creek the turf club committee has had to make possibly the most difficult change in the events near century long existence.
While the vibrant atmosphere of Ewan will remain alive and well; the prolonged dry spell which has made the ground as ‘dry as old chips’ according to club secretary/treasurer Noel Brosnan has signalled the end of grass fed racing on the track, and a change to a permanent standard corn fed non-TAB meeting from 2015 onward.
“It’s a shame to lose the uniqueness of the meeting, but it was unavoidable,” Mr Brosnan said.
“Water is a major issue here; Bluewater Creek is completely dry so we’ve been carting water to the club to ensure there is an adequate supply for the meeting,” he said.
He said the two-day 10 race program has also been shifted from its traditional September 26-27 dates to September 19-20.
Mr Brosnan said the committee isn’t sure what to expect in regards to crowd numbers this year due to the date change, but is hoping it will have minimal impact.
“It was great with our normal dates as they landed during the second week of school holidays. The change will mean the first day of racing will take place the day after holiday’s start which might make it difficult for some families to attend.
“Hopefully we’ll be able to reclaim our normal dates in 2016.”
The club social and promotions director, Stacey Kirkwood said that even with the changes to the corn fed format, it is business as usual from the social point of view.
“Friday will see the meeting officially commence with the clubs annual general meeting taking place,” Mrs Kirkwood said.
“On Saturday a fashion parade will take place in the afternoon followed by an auction in the beer garden,” she said.
“A fun run for the adults and various sporting activities for the kids will take place on Sunday morning, and nomination for the Fashion on the Field competition will open from 1.30pm with the winners announced at 3.30pm. We’ll also be holding a Calcutta both days before the first race.”
She said some exciting changes to the Fashion on the Field segment have taken place this year, to encourage fervent, colourful competition on and off the racetrack.
“2015 will mark the first time that the Fashion on the Field will be fully judged with some great prizes in the offing.”
Kye Cole will keep the toes tapping with live music on both nights, while any hunger pains or thirsts can be satiated with a full bar and food vans operating from Saturday morning.
Camping facilities are available on course from Thursday September 17 including toilets and hot shower facilities.
Mr Brosnan said it’s also highly advisable to bring plenty of drinking water due to the limitations on-site.
For pricing information and general inquiries email contact@ewanraces.com.au or phone 4779 6473. For further information regarding the social program contact Stacey Kirkwood on 47 88 55 73 or email skirkwood@activ8.net.au