Dust will be brushed off the high heels, fascinators and suits as punters gather trackside for the 99th Burrandowan Picnic Races.
After the 2020 day of bush racing was cancelled amid the pandemic, the city and bush communities will be itching to get back out for the big event on Saturday, 8 May.
Burrandowan is a day when the local community gathers to host people from far and wide -many of whom return year after year for their ‘fix’ of real country racing.
Not only a great day of country racing, Burrandowan attracts punters, fashionistas and families from all over southeast Queensland and interstate.
Club secretary Trish Christie said it was her community’s ‘event of the year’.
“We know people return year after year to enjoy their weekend in the bush with friends and families, and we love hosting them,” she said.
“We work to prepare the grounds and organise the event, then dress up and join our friends and family for a great day out.”
Over the years the picnic races have become a common place to meet life-long friends.
“Some people may even by lucky enough to meet their true love and become a legendary ‘bride of Burrandowan,” Ms Christie said.
The day is run by a volunteer committee and in this 99th year the locals are as keen as ever to showcase country racing.
“Come and support a fantastic day in the bush -Burrandowan is one of Australia’s iconic picnic race meetings and as we are only three hours from Brisbane, it is an easy weekend away,” Ms Christie said.
“People relax and soak up the atmosphere as soon as they arrive -the bush setting and friendliness -the track is amid tall gum trees and the contrast of the well-dressed racegoers and the bush is fabulous.”
A range of food options will be available, including grazing boxes available through pre-order and Devonshire tea at the Chaphingah Cafe.
The racing will kick off at 1.30pm -however, the local tip is to be there well before to set up your picnic, be spotted for the Fashions on the Field, collect your grazing box and take in all of the race track sights.
There are some new additions to the Fashions on the Field competition with new categories: best millinery, boy and girl under 13 and boy and girl 13-17 years.
After dark, you can dance along under the stars to Ryza and enjoy the famous Burrandowan pit fired barbeque, cooking your steak to perfection (just don’t forget your own cooking utensils). Limited camping will also be available trackside.
The race track is 60km west of Kingaroy. A shuttle bus from Kingaroy, Kumbia, Jandowae and Durong will be available.
Pre-purchase tickets (18+ $25 each, children’s tickets are free) via www.burrandowan.com.au
