Thoroughbred racing is set to take centre stage across the Tasman as Australia and New Zealand unite to celebrate the sport through National Thoroughbred Week.
From 20 November to 24 November 2025, the five-day pilot event will see racing stables, stud farms and rehoming facilities open their gates across both countries, including here in WA, with visitors set to gain a firsthand look at the daily care, dedication and passion that underpins thoroughbred racing.
Racing WA is proud to support National Thoroughbred Week, teaming up with trainers Aaron Mitchell and Julie Clements to host a free Open Morning Stable Tour at their Ascot stables on Sunday, 23 November. Meet the horses, discover what goes into preparing them for race day, and enjoy complimentary coffee and muffins while exploring life behind the stable doors.
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(image: Julie Clements and G1 winning jockey Shaun O'Donnell)
National Thoroughbred Week celebrates all aspects of thoroughbred racing and offers a unique opportunity to experience the realities of the industry up close. From observing morning trackwork to exploring equine welfare and post-racing career pathways, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between misinformation and reality, empowering both the public and policymakers to form informed perspectives.
The initiative aligns with Together for Racing International (TfRI), a global movement promoting best practices in equine welfare, community engagement and sustainable industry growth. It draws inspiration from successful models such as National Racehorse Week (UK) and Open Farms (NZ), adapting the concept to suit the diverse racing landscape of Australia and New Zealand.
National Thoroughbred Week will bring together trainers, breeders, jockeys, owners, rehoming specialists and racing fans to showcase the sport and its horses in the most authentic and direct way possible. Whether it’s a city-based stable, a rural stud or a retraining centre, each venue will offer free access to see, touch and learn about thoroughbreds across all stages of life.
(image: Trainer and former Group winning jockey Aaron Mitchell will share his insights)
A national map of participating hosts is now live at thoroughbredweek.com.au. Bookings are free but essential to manage capacity. Some venues will offer short tours, while others may host open days with demonstrations and talks.
If you would like to attend the WA event, please register here.