Close to 3750 people converged on Nyngan last weekend for the Duck Creek Picnic Races heralding a successful return to the Western Plains social calendar for this popular event after a two year Covid-19 hiatus.

President Rowen Cleaver said the meet was one of the most successful in the 15 year history of the event, and praised the behaviour of the crowd.

"A highlight was the amount of money raised on the day by community groups," Mr Cleaver said.

"The Rally for Reegs charity received $10,000 in donations from the crowd, and the Nyngan Junior League took $7000 on their BBQ the next morning."

Mr Cleaver said other community groups such as the Nyngan Pony Club, the local branch of the Isolated Parents and Childrens Association, and the Hermidale Future Farmers would receive donations for helping out on the day.

Special guest at the races this year was retired champion jockey Glenn Boss – best known for riding Makybe Diva to victory in three consecutive Melbourne Cups.

Mr Boss was joined by 13-member film crew for the digital television program "Bossy's Bucket List" which aims to give more exposure to country racing and the communities which make them happen.

Celebrity jockey Glen Boss was on hand to present the Duck Creek Cup to winning jockey Emily Waters. PHOTO: Racing Photography

Travelling ion a Winnebago with two of his mates, Rugby League legend Michael Crocker and comedian Lawrence Mooney, Mr Boss has visited around 67 other iconic race meetings around Australia as part of the series.

Before attending the races, they joined the local rugby union side – the Bogan Bulls for a training session and also spent time with local horse trainers.

Emma Welsh, Ian Perkins and Todd Barber having lunch in the "Duck Pond" 

The Fashions in the Field Competition, judged by past winner Josie Anderson, were a key part of the day. The best dressed gentleman was Shayne Carroll from Bourke; best dressed lady over 40 was Michelle Starr from Cobar; best dressed filly (under 40) was Georgia Rodgers; best dressed teens were Charles McLean and Isla Ross; and Sydney visitor Jennifer Vernon won the millinery prize. [see photos below]

The Duck Creek Races is the biggest event each year in the Bogan Shire, population 3076, and attracts racegoers from across NSW.

Young racegoers Nina Reithmuller, Grace Bell, Mimi Lavender, Anouska Cayser, Lucy McLaughlin, Liv Taylor, Heidi Best and Lulu Smart.

Mr Cleaver said one of the challenges when staging a large event in a small community was finding enough volunteers.

"Huge thanks must go to the Nyngan Rugby Club for its massive support crew and manpower over the weekend. The day would not be possible without them. Some of these volunteers started at 7.30am in the morning to set up, moved to the bar and didn't knock off till after 11pm".

Iconic 1980's pub rock band The Choir Boys was the feature band at the post-races concert, belting out crowd favourites such as "Run to Paradise" and "Boys will be Boys".

Millinery winner Jennifer Vernon with runner up.

Best dressed lady over 40 was Michelle Starr and runner up was Anita Bennett, with judge Josie Anderson.

Teen fashion winners Charles Mclean and Isla Ross with judge Josie Anderson.

Under 40 fashion in the field winner Georgia Rodgers (centre) with runner up Jayde Lofty (left) and judge Josie Anderson.