A triangular track unfolds before you. This is Werribee Racecourse.
For over 160 years Werribee Racecourse has been a vital part of this landscape. It started modestly. In 1861 the land was gazetted as a racecourse and recreation reserve. The Chirnside family played a key role. They were passionate about horse racing. Their property Werribee Park bred top horses.
Early racing was rather informal. Think picnics with horses. Official meetings followed. The Wyndham Racing Club was formed in 1862. It lasted until 1910. The course fell into disrepair during the 1890s depression. It became neglected. People even used it as a common area.
In 1912 a new Wyndham Racing Club was formed. Racing restarted in 1915. Imagine the excitement! The grandstand arrived in 1924. It was shipped from Flemington Racecourse. A railway siding was added in 1927. This improved access significantly.
The Second World War impacted Werribee. From 1940 to 1946 the racecourse became an army training camp. No races were held. The post-war years saw significant upgrades. The Bacchus Marsh Racing Club merged in 1960. Major track improvements took place in 1984.
Modern Werribee Racecourse is impressive. It has a synthetic track and state-of-the-art equine health facilities. These are comparable to those in Dubai and Hong Kong. International horses stay here for quarantine. They prepare for the Spring Racing Carnival. Famous horses like Makybe Diva raced here. She won the 2002 Werribee Cup.
The Werribee Cup is the premier event. It’s held on the first Sunday in December. In 2019 Rupture won the Cup. Today Werribee Racecourse is a modern facility. It’s also a popular venue for functions and events. This combines the old and new. A unique blend of history and modern amenities. A truly captivating place.