Bunbury Turf Club

Bunbury Racecourse, located in Carey Park, Western Australia, is a provincial racing venue known for its vibrant racing scene. The Bunbury Turf Club, which operates the racecourse, hosts numerous race meetings from September to March, including major events like the Bunbury Stakes and Bunbury Cup. The club was established in 1867 and has grown to become one of the most important racetracks in Western Australia. In 1998 the winner of the Bunbury Cup was Rogan Josh who went on to win the Melbourne Cup a year later.

Recently, Bunbury Racecourse underwent a significant redevelopment project, which has been a game-changer for the local racing community. The $30 million makeover included the construction of a new 20-metre-wide turf track and a 17-metre-wide sand training track. Additionally, more than 150 state-of-the-art horse stalls and new buildings with a viewing deck were added. The track hosts more than 70 registered horse trainers who utilise the training facilities to prepare their horses to compete at the highest level. 

The improvements have been well-received by trainers and jockeys, who now enjoy enhanced facilities and a more consistent racing surface. The Bunbury Turf Club's chief executive, Alex Doble, highlighted that the upgraded facilities will ensure the long-term viability of racing in Bunbury and attract new participants to the sport.

Bunbury itself is a coastal city in the South West region of Western Australia, approximately 175kms south of Perth. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant port, Bunbury is the third most populous city in the state, with a population of around 75,000. The city is a hub for the surrounding agricultural and mining regions, offering a mix of urban amenities and natural attractions. The Leschenault Inlet and Koombana Bay are popular spots for water activities, while the Dolphin Discovery Centre provides unique opportunities to interact with marine life.