Whether you find yourself in the area or at a loss for something to do, consider getting your backside trackside for the Back O Bourke Picnic Races this Easter Sunday 31 March 2024. 

Race club president Frank Kerr said that there’s more than just the races to think about coming to town this Easter weekend. 

“We have the Easter festival so that brings a lot of people to the community. People coming out for the races have all different activities over the weekend,” Mr Kerr said. 

Activities will be spread across Bourke for the local Easter festival, including a giant easter egg hunt, guided tours, markets, colour run, and Good Friday Long Table Dinner. 

On race day, racegoers can expect a variety of food stalls, Fashions on the Field, jumping castle for kids and a full bar. 

Join the crowd this Easter at the Harry Hart Memorial Race Meeting in Bourke. IMAGE: facebook

The local Fashions on the Field is one that’s not to be missed. 

“2019’s competition and every year since proved to be competitive and has attracted a very classy group of participants.”

“Categories range from children’s, to teens, to adults, including Best Dressed Contemporary, Best Dressed Classic Lady and Best Millinery.”

Logistically, Mr Kerr said that preparation is going smoothly, with the committee confident the track will pass the final inspection, and is expecting a crowd of around 2000 people. 

“We’ve had one inspection done for us and there were only a couple of little things that we had to try and fix up…we have our final track inspection on Monday,” he said. 

After a tedious year for surrounding races, Bourke is confident in their track. (Facebook)

The five-race program will see $40,000 in prize money up for winning horses, with $12,000 set aside for the Splash Cola Harry Hart Memorial Cup. 

The race dedicated to Harry Hart celebrates a beloved local who was once a big part of the local race club.

“He’s done a fair bit for the community and used to be a caller for the races years and years ago.” Mr Kerr said. 

“The committee looks forward to another successful race day and is one not to be missed.”