Around 900 people attended the 143rd Moulamein Races on Saturday, December 14. The friendly and joyful crowd made the most of the six-race meet in the warm summer sun. This year marked the loss of the historic bar after the structure was removed due to safety concerns. An expansive marquee filled its place, enabling punters to quench their hard-earned thirst.
Moulamein Racing Club President Alison Glenn said the day was a tremendous success.
“It was really pleasing, we’re down on last year, but still really happy with the event.” said Alison
“The day was beautiful, it was a little bit warm, but we are in December, aren’t we?”
Alison thanked the tremendous work of the volunteers, Footy Club, vendors, and trainers who supported the iconic event.
“We have fantastic support from food vendors from around the region; they keep coming back, which is really good that they support us very well. Most of our sponsors are return sponsors who like supporting us and our horse trainers come back every year. Nathan Hobson, who is a local trainer had great success on the day. He has supported us the entirety of his training career.”
A highlight of the day was the recognition of Nick McKindlay, who was awarded a lifetime membership of the club. There were only five lifetime members of the club before Nick’s appointment on the weekend. His service to the club and Furlong committee started in 1985. Those who know and have worked with Nick state that he is a pleasure to work with and that he just makes things happen.
“Nick being presented with the life membership was probably the highlight of the day.” said Alison
“He’s been there all those years. It really was to highlight and recognise his behind-the-scenes work. He’s just someone who can make things happen. Everybody wants to be Nick’s mate because Nick is such a lovely person.”
Local Trainer Nathan Hobson had three wins, a second and third on the day, from his seven runners.
“We’ve been going to Moulamein for a social day since we were kids. It’s probably a bit different since I’ve been training. It’s always a great event.” said Nathan.
“We had Jockey Makisha Salter. She started a three-month loan. She came from Mornington.”
“She’s a good person and a good worker. She has been getting a few winners for us lately.”
“I would like to thank the staff. We have some really good staff behind the scenes, working the horses in the morning. It’s a big job.”
The fashions on the field were once again a highlight of the day. Competitors travelled from interstate to the event. The best-dressed man who braved the heat in a stunningly colourful suit had ventured from Leeton for the day.
The event’s success was reflected in the bookings already received for next year!
See all the pictures in the issue.
This article appeared in The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper, 19 December 2024.