Racetrack curators from across WA have gathered at Bunbury Turf Club for the latest Grass Track Curators Workshop, building on the success of the inaugural session held at Ascot Racecourse earlier this year.
The August workshop focused on practical learning and open discussion, designed to strengthen the growing network of turf professionals across the state.
The workshop was organised and facilitated by Racing WA Club Development Manager Nicole Bell who said the aim is to build better collaboration and understanding between the curators.
“The workshops aim to establish stronger connection between the curators – much like what exists throughout the country,” Nicole said.
Perth Racing’s Head of Racing and Training Brock Neeling, alongside turf agronomist John Forrest, led a session on track stability at Belmont Racecourse. Their presentation sparked engaging discussion, with curators raising plenty of real-world questions about the challenges and approaches of managing Perth’s premier winter track.
Participants then headed trackside for a hands-on look at soil profiles and the crucial role moisture plays in achieving optimum turf performance. Walking the Bunbury circuit also allowed curators to compare notes on race-day recovery practices and explore how different venues handle their unique conditions.
Bunbury Track Manager Kyle Potter shared a timelapse video capturing the milestones and challenges of the club’s $30 million redevelopment. He also offered valuable insight into the fibre sand surface, giving other clubs practical takeaways to consider for their own venues.
“The real value of these workshops is the chance to connect with other curators and openly share what’s working and what isn’t,” Kyle said.
“We all gain a stronger sense of connection and that we’re all working together to deliver the best possible racing surfaces across the State.”
Racing WA Head Starter for Thoroughbreds and Harness John Pepe provided expertise on starting gates, rail movements and equine emergency preparedness.
The afternoon centred on discussion, with each curator contributing current issues, local solutions and new ideas for improvement. With the support of an online group now linking curators across WA, collaboration and knowledge-sharing beyond the workshop is now easier than ever.
The next Curators Workshop is set for December at Belmont Racecourse, with a planned visit to Optus Stadium.
As these sessions continue to evolve, curators are not only enhancing their technical expertise but also strengthening a State-wide community committed to delivering the best possible racing surfaces.
Josh Miller