Community Bank Mount Beauty & District Dederang Picnic Races
The Community Bank Mount Beauty & District Dederang Picnic Races returns on Saturday 21 February 2026, bringing a showcase of country racing, live entertainment, family friendly activities and the relaxed atmosphere the Dederang community is known for. This year’s event promises one of the biggest programs yet, attracting racegoers from across Victoria and beyond.
Friday Night Calcutta – The official kick off
Race weekend begins on Friday 20 February at the Dederang Hotel with the highly anticipated Calcutta. Tickets are on sale from 6pm, with the auction beginning around 8pm. Attendees can purchase unlimited tickets, with horses randomly allocated before being auctioned to the highest bidder. The Calcutta provides an energetic, community spirited start to the weekend with plenty of chances to win big.
Race day – Saturday 21 February 2026
Gates open at 11:00am at the Dederang Race Track on the Kiewa Valley Highway. The six race program features the Lloyds Refrigeration Flying Handicap and the Milestone Chemicals Australia Dederang Cup. The day includes Fashions on the Field, food stalls, a full bar, wine stand, kids entertainment zone, live music by Me and the Girl, and popular competitions including the Pitman Trucks Mile Footrace and bet365 Tug of War. BYO is welcome, and an after-party will run at the Dederang Hotel with a courtesy bus to and from the track.
Free on course camping
Visitors are encouraged to make a weekend of it with free on-course camping available from Thursday to Sunday. Unpowered sites are offered on a first come basis, with toilets and hot showers available. Fires are not permitted. Entry is via Streets Lane, with shuttle services available between the camping area and the Dederang Hotel after the last race. Nearby caravan parks are available at Dederang Hotel, Mongans Bridge, and Tawonga.
Thanks to our sponsors
The Dederang Picnic Races Committee extends sincere thanks to its major sponsor, Community Bank Mount Beauty & District, and all supporting race partners including Yenda Producers, Murray Valley Veterinary Services, TAFCO Rural Supplies, Dederang Hotel, Pitman Trucks, bet365, REM Richardson Earthworks and Maintenance, The Farm Mudgegonga, Intersales, Kyvalley Dairy Group, Grealy Motors & Towing Service, Milestone Chemicals, and Lloyd’s Refrigeration & Air Conditioning.
