Laverton Race Club

Laverton Racecourse, located just under 1000km east of Perth, is one of Western Australia’s many country dirt tracks. Established by the Laverton Race Club in 1956, it began as a race meeting for locally bred horses, primarily stock horses ridden by locals. The rules were quite relaxed, with no official weights or starting gates used. The first meeting saw 54 horses nominated across six races.

In the 1970s and 80s, the club became more professional, with apprentice jockeys riding with a minimum weight of 70kgs. Thoroughbreds started making an appearance, with four of the six races for thoroughbreds and the remaining two for locally bred horses. During this time, starting gates were introduced, manufactured locally, and this piece of history can still be seen today.

In the late 1990s, Laverton Race Club allowed professional jockeys to start riding. The annual Laverton races are held in late October, drawing in locals and offering a wide range of entertainment, including Fashions on the Field.

Laverton’s horse racing scene is a vibrant part of the community, reflecting the town’s rich history and love for the sport. The Laverton Cup, held annually, is a highlight, attracting top competitors from around the region and providing a unique outback racing experience. The racecourse’s friendly atmosphere and the community’s enthusiasm make it a special event for both participants and spectators.