Starter’s assistant Nadine Collins is looking forward to the barriers bursting open for the first time this year at the Carnarvon Race Club’s seasoner opener this Saturday.
A Carnarvon local, Nadine has been immersed in the Gascoyne town’s vibrant racing scene from a young age.
She now sits on the club committee and rides trackwork for leading local trainer Peter Daly, in addition to manning the barriers on race day - a lifestyle she said she wouldn’t change.
“I enjoy all aspects of my roles, from the adrenaline in the barriers, to the professionalism shown by everyone from the jockeys to the committee members,” Nadine told Racing WA.
“The race club is a really good team environment and everyone has each other’s back.”
The Carnarvon race season takes place from May through to September, culminating in the $60,000 Carnarvon Cup (2000m). The opening meeting is a highly-anticipated event in the town.
“The race season heralds the coming of our social season, so to speak, and the first race meet really kicks off the social fabric of the town,” Nadine said.
“Seeing the community support on opening race day is huge. I, t gives you that kick and reminds you why we do it.”
Racing in the Gascoyne region supports 111 of the more than 10,000 full-time equivalent jobs the WA industry helps sustain. It also contributes some $13.9 million of the $1.3 billion that racing contributes towards the State's economy annually.
Carnarvon Race Club Operations Manager Geoff Rodier said the town is buzzing with excitement in the build-up to the season opener.
“I’ve never seen the town as busy as what it is at the moment,” Geoff said.
“It’s really rejuvenating and racing-wise, we’re pretty excited about the future on the back of that.
“Opening day is always big, it’s anticipated all year round and it’s a marvellous occasion when the whole town can have a nice day out and enjoy the amazing weather and facilities at the club.”
Saturday’s program features six races, with the Daly stable saddling up three runners in the hope of opening their account early at Carnarvon for the season.
Nadine said riding trackwork for Daly had been a big help with several facets in her various industry-based roles.
“Working with Pete Daly helps give me a better understanding of how everything ties together and the different aspects of the industry,” she said.
“Growing up the quintessential mad horse girl who never grew out of it, I’m really thankful for the opportunities that have presented themselves to me ... especially here in Carnarvon.”
The season’s first race is set to start at 1:37pm on Saturday.
Josh Miller