The Balranald Racing Club is gearing up for one of the highlights of the country racing calendar, with their annual Cox Plate meeting set for Saturday, October 25.

The event promises a full day of racing excitement, complete with marquees, gazebos, live entertainment, and the popular Fashions on the Field competition.

Founded in 1884, the Balranald Racing Club has been a cornerstone of the local community for more than 140 years, making it one of the oldest country racing clubs in New South Wales. 

The club's longevity speaks to both the enduring appeal of horse racing in rural Australia and the dedicated community support that has sustained it through generations.

This year's Cox Plate meeting offers race-goers a choice of premium experiences.

The 30-seater marquees are available for $75 per person, while the more intimate gazebos accommodate 10 to 20 people for the same price. 

Both options include food platters and a selection of beverages including beer, wine, champagne, water, and soft drinks.

The club strives to maintain the family-orientated atmosphere of the day, continuing a very long-standing tradition. 

Gates open at 11am, with tickets priced at $25 for general admission. 

The day features live music and kids' entertainment alongside the racing action, ensuring there's something for every member of the family.

The naming of their premier race as the ‘Cox Plate in the Bush’ pays homage to one of Australia's most prestigious horse races. 

The original W.S. Cox Plate was first run in 1922 and won by the English horse Violoncello. 

The race is named in honour of the Moonee Valley Racing Club's founder, William Samuel Cox, and is known as Australia's Best Race.

While the Melbourne Cox Plate has become a $5 million Group 1 weight-for-age championship attracting the world's best horses, country racing clubs like Balranald have embraced the tradition by hosting their own versions. 

This connection between city and country racing demonstrates the deep roots that horse racing has in Australian culture.

The most successful Cox Plate horse in history was four-time hero Winx, the mighty mare winning the race from 2015-18, though country racing fans create their own heroes and legends through their local meetings.

The Balranald Cup meeting also features TAB betting and on-site bookmakers, adding to the authentic racing experience. 

The ‘Fashions on the Field’ competition has become a beloved tradition, encouraging race-goers to dress up and celebrate the social side of country racing.

Country racing plays a vital role in rural communities, providing not only entertainment but also economic benefits to local businesses and social connection for residents. 

Over the years, the Balranald Racing Club has had very generous support from their many sponsors, which has helped greatly in attracting strong fields and maintaining the quality of their race meetings.

The club's commitment to all-day catering ensures visitors can make a full day of the experience, whether they choose to secure a spot under one of the beautiful old trees on the grass grounds or book their own private gazebo for a more exclusive experience.

For those interested in securing their spot at this year's Cox Plate meeting, bookings can be made by calling 0437 200 475 or through the club's Facebook page or website at www.balranaldrc.com. 

The club recommends booking early, as the combination of quality racing, excellent facilities, and country hospitality makes this one of the region's most popular racing events.

BR&C Agents are proudly sponsoring this year's event.

Whether you're a racing enthusiast or simply looking for a great day out with family and friends, the Balranald Cox Plate meeting offers the perfect blend of sport, socialising, and country hospitality that makes country racing such a cherished Australian tradition.