Off & Racing at Sunshine Coast Turf Club
With a new season of memberships about to launch, there’s always something happening at the world’s leading racetrack, Sunshine Coast Turf Club, as Deb Caruso discovers.
The excitement in the air is palpable; all eyes are on the track as the magnificent partnership between human and horse is on show it’s all ‘go’!
“And they’re off and racing!” as hats, fascinators, tickets and a steadying drink is clutched as people cheer for their favourite horse, whether they have taken a punt or not, it’s all for fun.
The thundering hooves match the racing hearts and cries of delight or despair as the winner crosses the finish line. Race over, the attention returns to the fashionable crowd, delicious food and divine drinks that are all as equally a part of the trackside experience as the race.
In surroundings such as this everyone is a winner and the excitement and electricity of race day cannot be denied – it’s a sensory immersion into the age-old tradition of horse racing.
The Sunshine Coast Turf Club (SCTC) at Corbould Park, Caloundra offers an even more dynamic experience when you understand how highly the club is regarded in the world of horse racing.
With three different tracks including an all-weather Poly Track, SCTC runs more races than any other track in the world, hosting upward of 65 annual race meetings. The world-class facilities also include four training tracks, pool and oncourse stables and it is one of only six thoroughbred gallop venues in Australia that race under lights – in fact, it’s the largest in the Southern hemisphere with night racing on three tracks.
Its outstanding facilities and reputation attracts an elite level of horses and provides punters with the chance to frock up and rock up for some seriously stylish events, including fundraising festivities that enable local charities to achieve big wins too.
There is no shortage of showstopping soirées that capture the hearts of punters, socialites, fashionistas and foodies. Whether you’re a racing purist, social enthusiast or a host with the most, the best way to catch all the action is by becoming a Member. Launching on 1 August (the designated birthday for horses), Members enjoy thrilling thoroughbred racing, exceptional dining, entertainment and unique experiences including premium facilities and exclusive Member Events as well as preferential pricing on drinks, guest admission, hospitality and dining, merchandise, access to all annual race meetings and so much more.
There’s a plethora of race events and special occasions that offer a fun day out with friends, families and colleagues.
Finding your perfect position is half the fun, and there’s something for all tastes and budgets. From the heights of the Eastern Lawn to the peak of Atrium Dining, the choices are boundless. Join the ultimate party in The Establishment; cheer home your best bets and rejoice in the newly refurbished Parade Ring Terrace; ponder your places whilst punting in paradise in the TAB Greenhouse; host a private deluxe celebration in The Glasshouse; or spend the day your way with live entertainment in GA (General Admission).
For the ultimate experience, our money is on The Pavilion and The Champagne Garden which offers a premier position right on the finish line so you can feel the earth move as the horses thunder past! It’s also next to the Mounting Yard where horses parade before the race and the victors are celebrated post-race. It’s premium coastal chic with a heartbeat!
You can exclusively hire a number of venues for the ultimate corporate hosting or celebration with live thoroughbred horse racing as the backdrop and generous food, beverage and custom packages available. Options are aplenty so giddy up and get involved!
OFF AND RACING!
Don’t miss these upcoming events!
Trackside La Dolce Vita, 6 August
A long lunch as part of The Curated Plate.
Sunshine Coast Pink Ribbon Raceday, 17 September
Raising funds to fight Breast Cancer
Noosa Cup Day, 15 October
Celebrating coastal chic with a local flavour
Melbourne Cup Day, 7 November
Local luxe for the race that stops the nation
Mooloolaba Cup Day, 18 November
The surf meets the turf for a raceday with style
Visit: www.sctc.com.au for information on membership, packages and to book tickets.
