Bumper crowd expected for annual Boxing Day races

Albany Racing Club is gearing up for its biggest meeting of the season, with thousands of punters expected to pour through the gates on Boxing Day next week.

More than 1500 people were in attendance on Boxing Day last year and numbers could rise again at one of the major social drawcards in the city over the festive period.

Live music, bus services, additional food and drink outlets and marquees will be in place for the large crowd.

ARC manager Tony Marwick, who is preparing for his first Boxing Day in charge, said the event was always the social highlight of the club’s season.

“It is great to be involved in the community and provide a nice green venue,” Mr Marwick said. “We have buses on from the visitor centre here and return.

“There will be music throughout the day, with Big Men Working plus marquees, food vans and extra bars.

“It is such a big social day and there will be plenty on offer for those who come along.

“Boxing Day is our biggest event of the year and it’s a great place where people can have a drink, relax and catch up, and of course, there is racing as well.”

Gates open at noon next Thursday and more than 1000 people are expected to attend.

Buses will begin running from 12.30pm and go through until 6pm.

Fields for the racing will be out later this week.

Albany is one of three venues that holds a race meeting on Boxing Day in WA.