Thousands of racing enthusiasts have flooded to Broome for one of WA’s most iconic weeks of racing.
Broome business owners are expecting an influx of visitors for Tuesday’s TABtouch Broome Sprint (1300m) at the Broome Turf Club and Saturday’s $100,000 Broome Cup (2200m).
Racing and Wagering Western Australia CEO Ian Edwards said racing events, such as the Broome Cup, underpinned racing’s social and economic importance to regional WA.
“Racing in the Kimberley makes a significant economic contribution, generating about $22.9 million for the WA economy annually,” Ian said.
"The Broome Cup is the highlight of the Kimberley racing calendar and brings the community together, offering a chance for people to connect and enjoy a day at the races.”
Matt Sharp, owner of Broome’s renowned Roebuck Roadhouse, said the Broome Turf Club’s racing season played a crucial role in driving local economic growth.
“Racing attracts so many people to town and the entire race season is a very busy time of the year for us as a business,” he said.
“Without racing in Broome, there would be a major gap in our social calendar — the Broome Cup is our most anticipated event.”
Broome Turf Club CEO Kelda Jones said racing’s social and economic importance was highlighted by the Broome Sprint and Broome Cup race meetings.
"Cup week is vital for our community and showcases racing’s many benefits, particularly from a social perspective, to regional areas," she said.
Shire of Broome President Chris Mitchell echoed Kelda’s sentiments and added:
“The Broome Cup is undoubtably one of Broome’s biggest drawcards, thanks to the location, the amazing weather and the laidback nature of the race meeting,” Chris said.
“It’s traditionally one of our biggest for visitor numbers and the busiest week for Broome airport.
“Racing has a positive impact on the economy with most of the hotels being booked out due to the week, and money being spent from when the first person that lands in Broome hails a taxi.”
Josh Miller