Albany Racing Club

Albany Racecourse is located over 400km southeast of Perth, Western Australia’s capital city. With stunning views of the Albany Wind Farm and Mt Melville in the distance, the Albany Racing Club offers a fantastic trackside experience where you can enjoy fashion, a friendly atmosphere, place a bet, or simply socialise.

The Albany Racing Club, which oversees Albany Racecourse, was established in 1865. It has had several locations, including near the present North Albany High School site until 1925, and at Centennial Oval until 1975, before moving to its current home.

Today, the race club hosts meetings each year from November through to May, including the Albany Cup, which dates back to 1927 and is held on Easter Sunday. Other feature race meetings include the Boxing Day meeting, popular with younger locals, and Ladies Day featuring the $100,000 Fitzpatrick Plate. A highlight is the Wellington & Reeves Bluff Knoll, a $400,000 slot race which attracts the fastest sprinters in the state.

Around Anzac Day, the club hosts the Jericho Cup Qualifier, a unique race run over 3100m. The winner receives a free trip to Warrnambool to contest the Jericho Cup Final over 4200m. The race is named after a race that took place during the first world war. The Australian Light Horse were planning a major offensive against the Turkish Empire so in order to lull the enemy into believing nothing unusual was afoot, a race meeting was organised on the eve of the assault. The 3-mile race was called The Jericho Cup, and the winner was horse named Bill The Bastard, probably Australia's greatest war horse.

Albany Racecourse is renowned for its picturesque setting and vibrant racing culture. The racecourse is part of the Great Southern region, known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. The Albany Racing Club is a key player in the local community, contributing to the region’s social and economic fabric. It is also home to many leading trainers who prepare their horses in the cooler environment with access to world class beaches.

Horse racing in Albany is not just about the races; it’s a social event that brings together people from all walks of life. The racecourse facilities include modern amenities, and the events often feature live entertainment, food stalls, and family-friendly activities, making it a great day out for everyone.

Whether you’re a seasoned punter or a first-time visitor, Albany Racecourse offers a unique and enjoyable experience that captures the essence of horse racing in Western Australia.