Brisbane Racing Club Archives - Page 2 of 3

Eagle Farm Track Looking Good for Upcoming Group 1 Race

With just a few weeks to go before the Group 1 meetings, Racing Queensland CEO Brendan Parnell has pronounced the Eagle Farm track to be in great shape and in its healthiest state, with the surface ryegrass growing strong for the winter after disease got the best of its roots, affecting its length and strength in 2020.

Months before the major races, debates about the cushion, surface, and general state of the Eagle Farm track became a worrying concern among the jockeys and trainers as their horses’ performance could be held back by a bad surface.

Some trainers also refused to let their horses run on a hard and uncushioned surface because it could be detrimental to the animal’s physical health and welfare.

Mr Purnells said that they wouldn’t usually do a renovation of the tracks in time for a big carnival but they had to stop the roots disease from spreading.

Now, a thick grass has been visible on the Eagle Farm track with some racing pundits, who watched Derby Day at the end of May 2021, saying that it’s looking pretty good.

Racing Queensland undertook the last significant renovation of the Eagle Farm track in 2014 by ripping and replacing all of its surfaces. However, when it reopened in 2016, a number of issues sprung with the new tracks with stakeholders saying that the problems have persisted in the last five years because of the track’s mismanagement.

The CEO also said that they have been continuously coordinating with the Brisbane Racing Club on how to improve the Eagle Farm track.

Girls’ Day Out: Most Glamorous, Ultimate Raceday Event Is Back

This summer, prepare to have your most glamorous time at the races yet! The ultimate raceday event, Girls’ Day Out, is returning for another popping party at the Eagle Farm Racecourse.

Ring your girlfriends and prepare your floral dress with matching fascinators as Girls’ Day Out gets underway on Saturday, the 22nd of February 2020. The party begins at 10:30 a.m. with a lot of exciting activities to experience until 6:00 p.m.

Fancy the latest trends? Then be at the all-new Stradbroke Plaza Precinct for Fashions on the Field. While you’re there, sample some mouthwatering tasty treats or quench your thirst at the pop-up bars and gourmet restaurants.

Within the same area, you can enjoy some lavish pampering at the complimentary Pamper Bar and Henna Tattooists section. For some thrills, get a peek into your future by consulting with tarot card readers.

If you’d like some tête-à-tête with your best friend, opt for the Royal High Tea from Sirromet Wine or chill out together at My Mexican Deck from Sauza Tequila Gold.

A number of live entertainment will be underway across the racecourse, headed by the award-winning Timotomatic, who will dish out his danceable hits on the Main Stage. Roving circus performers will be dazzling guests along with the impressive Queens of the Track.

A crew made up of “Gentlemen To Help” will be going around the racecourse to assist guests. Speaking of which, gents are welcome to tag along with their wives, girlfriends or gal pals even as this party is catered for women. They may also enjoy the same activities as the girls or watch the races live.

To wrap up Girls’ Day Out, an after-party will be taking place at the Society Rooftop Bar.

There will be plenty to do at Girls’ Day Out with everything happening in one place. To check the packages and score tickets, visit the event page online.

The event is presented by Priceline Pharmacy Ascot and James Street.

Ascot’s Big Screen On the Green to Run ‘The Shining’ for Halloween Night

Dare your friends or family to watch a horror flick on Halloween night at the Big Screen on The Green in Ascot. For a frightful but fun evening, this open-air entertainment site at the Brisbane Racing Club is going to run Stephen King’s “The Shining,” on Thursday, the 31st of Oct 2019 at 7:00 p.m.

If you haven’t seen this film before, then prepare to be scared out of wits. “The Shining” and its star Jack Nicholson, as the villain Jack Torrence, have been recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the top thrilling movies and intimidating villains in 100 years of film history.

If you’ve watched “The Shining” before, relieve the experience as it is featured in one of the largest screens in the southern hemisphere. The movie’s scenes and villain are sure to raise the hair on your back or leave your heart beating fast.

*Photo Credit: Big Screen on the Green/Facebook*

Bring your own blankets or bean bags so you’ll be comfortable while watching the film at Big Screen on the Green. Alternatively, you may also hire picnic blankets, warm blankets or bean bags ranging from $5 to $12.

Food and drinks will be sold at the venue including alcoholic beverages and wine, as you can’t bring or pack your own.

To book your tickets to this Halloween Big Screen on the Green event, visit the official site and select the package most suited for your preference.

Welcome Spring with the First-Ever Brewtiful Espresso Martini Brunch in Ascot

Springtime and brunches go well together and it’s even more delightful if you could enjoy this with a glass of espresso martini. If you’re in Ascot, look no further because you can welcome a lovely spring with a mid-morning meal and a caffeine-filled drink at the Brewtiful Espresso Martini Brunch this Saturday, the 28th of Sept 2019.

Brisbane Racing Club and Ketel One, along with The Society and Billy J Boutique, are mounting the first-ever Brewtiful Espresso Martini Brunch in Ascot, which should hopefully become a yearly tradition.

This event takes points from previous parties celebrated at the social venue and combines people’s love for brunches, coffee and boozy drinks.

Ketel One will be serving up freshly-brewed concoctions and food at the club’s Espresso Yourself! Bar. So, go ahead and indulge with a serving of cinnamon & coffee waffles or coffee-smoked brisket burger whilst you sip your drink of choice.

Running from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Brewtiful Espresso Martini Brunch will also feature creative activities like ceramic painting, flower-crown making and “Design Your Own” ice block. Guests may also shop at the Billy J Boutique Pop-Up, as well as browse the heaps of market stalls that will be set up during the event.

Live entertainment will be provided by a jazz band and a DJ whilst drag queens Vollie La Vont & Chocolate Boxx will keep the party vibe high as the hosts the event. Aside from socialising, brunching and taking photos, you may also win exciting giveaways and prizes during the program.

Dress your best and most comfortable summer outfit to enjoy this breezy brunch amidst the gorgeous greens of the Eagle Farm Racecourse.

Tickets go for $65 for the brunch package and $100 for the VIP rooftop package.

New Trackside Marina Unveiling in Ascot To Highlight 48-ft Riviera Sports Yacht

Experience a different vibe at this year’s Brisbane Racing Carnival in Ascot, as a 48-ft Riviera Sports Yacht will be docking at the new Trackside Marina at the centre of the Eagle Farm Racecourse.

Inspired by the French-Riviera, the most exclusive party will be happening at this luxury yacht, where guests may enjoy the non-stop flow of champagne, premium alcoholic drinks and other beverages from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Gourmet cocktail dishes will also be served at this grand party, whilst guests take pleasure watching the races in the most comfortable seats with unequalled visibility of the day’s events. However, plasma screens will also be all around the yacht so that guests can cheer on their favourites wherever they may be lounging and resting.

Guests who would like to indulge and reward themselves in this opulence may book a ticket to be at this new Trackside Marina unveiling on two Saturdays:

Kirin States Day on 25 May 2019
TAB Stradbroke Day on 8 June 2019

Ticket prices to gain special private access to this luxury yacht at the Trackside Marina is at $440 per person for members of the Brisbane Racing Club and $450 for non-members.

*Photo Credit: Brisbane Racing Club/Facebook*

To take this party to the next level, groups may also rent a Private Cabana at the Trackside Marina for $550 per person, where a personal staff will be at your service.

The 48-ft Riviera Sports Yacht and the Private Cabana will only be around until the 8th of June so grab the chance while you can!

First-Ever Pink Picnic to Welcome Autumn at Eagle Farm Racecourse In Ascot

Photo Credit: jill111/Pixabay

The very first Pink Picnic is happening this Saturday, the 6th of April 2019, at the Eagle Farm Racecourse in Ascot. Guests are encouraged to dress in pink and white to mark the celebration that will hopefully become a local tradition to welcome Autumn.

Hosted by the Brisbane Racing Club, The Society, and Petal & Pup, Pink Picnic will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Some 500 seats will be available for this 18+ event, with ticket options for $75 or $100.

The Pink Party’s main event will be held at the racecourse’s alfresco dining area, where guests will be treated to live entertainment featuring acts like the Millenium Band and Gabrielle Lambe.

Expect pink-themed food, drinks, and desserts, including a wave of Gordon’s Premium Pink Gin Spritz as supplied by the sponsor of the event. Pink Party ambassador Ash Keily will also be there to make sure that the guests enjoy the day’s activities.

A Rooftop Rose Party will also be underway, where a live DJ will be rousing guests with dance music. This special-access section will also have a separate canape and beverage selection.

Each ticket holder pf the Pink Party will be able to take advantage of the pamper stations and market stalls at the racecourse grounds. Lawn games and other activities will also be set up throughout the event.

Interested guests may purchase their tickets at the official website of the Brisbane Racing Club.

Cheer On! Bloke’s Day Out is Happening in Ascot

Brisbane Racing Club is hosting a Bloke’s Day Out at the Eagle Farm Racecourse in Ascot. The event, scheduled to start at 10:30 a.m. on the 23rd of March 2019, will be open to both club members and the public.

A local black-type race, which features horses with exceptional breeds and have won prestigious races, will be one of the highlights of Bloke’s Day Out. However, there will also be big screens at the venue where guests may follow the 2019 Longines Golden Slipper as it happens live in Sydney.

There will be nine racing times to watch:

Race 1 – 12:18 p.m.
Race 2 – 12:57 p.m.
Race 3 – 1:37 p.m.
Race 4 – 2:17 p.m.
Race 5 – 3:00 p.m.
Race 6 – 3:42 p.m.
Race 7 – 4:18 p.m.
Race 8 – 4:55 p.m.
Race 9 – 5:30 p.m.

Bloke’s Day Out will also feature a workshop from Racing Queensland Hall of Famer Bart Sinclair, who will impart racing tips and other helpful facts for the enthusiasts.

Other guest speakers will also be at the event. Interested parties may follow the Brisbane Racing Club’s events page for an updated list of VIP speakers.

A fun day out with the guys (and their wives and girlfriends, too!) will not be complete without beer and food. There will be a good selection of brewers and food trucks at the air-conditioned bar. Details to these providers will be available during the actual race day.

The event will also feature live music and entertainment when the races are over. Tickets to the Bloke’s Day Out are already up for grabs. Vouchers from BCF Australia will also be distributed to the guests and someone may also win a pallet of beer.

Priceline Pharmacy Ascot Presents Girls’ Day Out in Eagle Farm Racecourse

Photo credit: Brisbane Racing Club/ brc.com.au

It’s time to call the squad and have a day of pampering, unlimited flowing beverages, and entertainment at the Brisbane Racing Club’s Girls’ Day Out presented by the Priceline Pharmacy Ascot!

The event will be at the heritage-listed Eagle Farm Racecourse, at the northern end of Racecourse Road in Ascot. The gates and the functions will be open to the public at 10:30 am and 11:30 am respectively.

The Brisbane Racing Club will set up a complimentary Pamper Station to keep participants looking their best throughout the day. There will be a Henna Tattoo Pop-Up and live DJ beats to make it more fun.

Get ready to be delighted with the all-male group Scarlet Sons as they perform their electrifying dance, acrobatics and cirque. The Queens of the Track, who appeared in the Girls’ Day out stage many times, will crack you up with their comedy and fabulous moves. Check out the list below to see the schedule of events for the Girls’ Day Out:

Meet Ambassador Georgia Love

Saturday, 23 February 2019 (11:30 am)

The Bachelorette former star Georgia Love is the Ambassador for Girls’ Day Out 2019. Following her stint at the reality TV dating game show, Love landed a gig as a news reporter. She will talk about her background in Journalism at the Inspirational Ladies’ Lunch.

Love will be joined by The Urban List CEO & Founder Susannah George and CocoBliss Co-Founder Candice Kemp as the inspirational guest speakers.

Buy Tickets Here

Fashions On The Field Competition

Saturday, 23 February 2019 (10:00 am for the opening of registration; 11:45 am for closing of registration; 12:00 nn for the beginning of the competition)

Enter the “Fashions on the Field” contest sponsored by SHEIKE and win hundreds of dollars in prizing. The winner will bring home a $500 SHEIKE voucher along with a few more giveaways like the En Pointe Collective earrings, Vogue Living magazine, and assorted cosmetics. The finalists will also go home with gift bags valued at over $100.

La-bOum Perform Live!

Saturday, 23 February 2019 (5:45 pm – 7:00 pm)

Pop-music band La bOum will take center stage as they play their hits. The three-member band, who performs all over Queenslands’ best nightclubs and also residents at Cloudland in Fortitude Valley, is known for their energetic and fun performances.

For tickets and packages, check out the Brisbane Racing Club Racedays.

Read: Glamorous Girls’ Day Out in Ascot to Benefit Gynaecological Cancer Research

Construction Begins For Brisbane Racing Club’s Restored Ascot Park This February

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Ten years ago, members of the Racecourse Precinct Neighbourhood Plan agreed that part of the Brisbane Racing Club (BRC) should be turned over to Ascot Park. In particular, the area that covers Lancaster Rd, Kitchener Rd, and McGill Ave, was supposed to be converted as a public park in a bid to create more green space for the residents.

Before the turnover, this triangle of land, surrounded by cement, dirt, patches of grass and scattered trees, served as a car park for members of the club. But in May 2018, the Brisbane City Council revealed plans for the park’s construction.

Work on the public park is expected to February until September 2019. Once completed, the park will have more accessible greenery. It will boast of the main park with tables and benches for families and kids, an outdoor gym and fitness corner, a fenced playground for the children, and an off-leash dog area.

Ascot Park has always part of the Eagle Farm racetrack facilities, which had been built in the 1860s. Hamilton Shire Council used to own and manage the park until it merged with the Brisbane City Council in the 1940s.

During the war, General Douglas MacArthur used Ascot Park as a storage site and parking space for military vehicles. It remained a car park long after the military left and the Brisbane Racing Club took over.

On days when there are no races, the park provided access to the locals but the development will allow for a better facility that the community shall be able to maximise.

According to Councillor David McLachlan (Hamilton), BRC submitted a master plan to redevelop the Eagle Farm estate. Originally, the club wanted to develop townhomes on this triangular area, which he opposed. The Brisbane City Council, however, approved the master plan after BRC agreed it will turn over the park to the community.

Following the release of the design for the park’s construction, BRC chairman Neville Bell commended the Council for a devising a “more appealing” area of the once vast and vacant parking lot.

Eagle Farm Markets Closing by the End of October

Shoppers and stallholders are disappointed with the announcement of Eagle Farm Markets’ closure at the end of October.

Eagle Farm Markets has officially announced that the last market day will be on Sunday, 28 October 2018.

The management informed the stallholders of the closure via email prior to their announcement on social media, however, it seems that not all were aware of the news. Some stallholders reportedly found out about the markets’ closing on Facebook.

Major Challenges

According to Brisbane Racing Club chairman Neville Bell, the decline in customers visiting the markets over the years is one of the challenges that the markets faced.

The popular markets reportedly had a decrease of 23.5% of customer visits in the last financial year. Apart from the decreasing customer visits, the number of competition in the area is also a hurdle for the markets.

Photo credit: Eagle Farm Markets/Facebook

“As a result, the BRC together with our partner the Brisbane Markets Limited, has decided to end the Eagle Farm Markets. The final Markets will be held on Sunday, October 28. This decision was not easy however we are mindful that our responsibility as a Club is to ensure our growing non-racing ventures are operated in a sustainable manner,” Mr Bell said.

“We thank the many loyal customers and clients of the Eagle Farm Markets. At their peak, the Markets attracted about 200,000 people each year. They were a vibrant gathering bringing together some excellent producers and loyal customers. We are grateful for their contributions,” he added.

Reactions from the Community

Most locals are sad to hear the news since the Eagle Farm Markets have been part of their Sunday routine. However, some are not as surprised since they have also noticed a decrease in the number of stalls in the markets. Some have even called out the limited number of parking space in the markets.

The Eagle Farm Markets might be bracing for a really busy Sunday. More locals are expressing their interest in heading to the markets for the very last time before its permanent closure.