The biggest event on Derby’s social calendar returns this weekend, with the Kimberley town expecting up to 2000 people to attend this year’s anticipated Derby Cup.
The annual race meeting, to be held at the West Kimberley Turf Club (WKTC) on Saturday July 20, is expected to draw visitors from across the State to the remote Kimberley town.
Racing and Wagering Western Australia CEO Ian Edwards said the Derby Cup was an iconic race meeting, which the Derby community embraced and supported.
“The atmosphere at last year’s Derby Cup was extraordinary – it was great to see the town connect and enjoy a day of racing,” he said.
“The Derby Cup is always a fantastic day at the races, with many West Aussies from the State’s southern areas venturing north to escape the cold and enjoy the dirt track spectacle.
“In addition to being a great social occasion, racing in the Kimberley makes an important economic contribution, generating about $22.9 million for the WA economy each year.”
Derby is home to picturesque red dirt track, which is surrounded by a golf course and has many neighbouring boab trees.
WKTC Treasurer Marie Richardson thanked sponsors for supporting the club ahead of the race day featuring the Derby BEP Cup (1800m) and CMC Barging Derby Sprint (1150m).
“It is the biggest event in Derby for the year, and it really is the genuine country race meeting of old,” she said.
“We have a lot of support from local sponsors and volunteers who help make the amazing day possible, and it really shows the community spirit.
“The turf club has reinvested a lot of money from the race day back into the club to keep the event going and enhance the experience in the future.”