The Cootamundra Turf Club is calling on the local community and racing enthusiasts across the Riverina to help preserve and document the rich history of one of regional New South Wales’ oldest racing institutions.
Founded in 1876, the club will celebrate its 150th sesquicentenary anniversary in 2026, marking a significant milestone in the history of NSW country racing. To commemorate the occasion, the club is seeking photographs, newspaper clippings, race books, memorabilia, personal stories and recollections that help tell the story of racing in Cootamundra over the past century and a half.
Historical records show the club began with approximately 30 members at a time when the township’s population was only around 100 residents. The club was granted custodianship of 160 acres of Crown land on the outskirts of the developing township.
Local pioneers, including John Barnes and Anthony Simpson, played instrumental roles in establishing what would become a cornerstone of the district’s sporting and social life.
Of particular interest is the history of the Cootamundra Cup, the club’s signature race. Records indicate organised racing was being conducted at Cootamundra by the late 1870s, with
documented race meetings held in 1879. By the turn of the twentieth century, the Cootamundra Cup had emerged as the premier event on the local racing calendar, attracting strong fields from across the region.
Early winners such as Earl Olive, Winoline and Albania form part of a proud racing tradition that continues today.
Over the decades, the Cootamundra Cup has developed a reputation as one of the Riverina’s most celebrated country racing events. Among its many memorable moments was the victory of ‘Just A Dash’ in the 1980 Cootamundra Cup before the horse went on to win the prestigious Melbourne Cup the following year.
Club President Jeff Bristow said the aim is to create a comprehensive historical record that honours the people, horses, trainers, jockeys, volunteers and supporters who have contributed to the club’s success since its establishment.
“The committee plans to publish a comprehensive book as part of our 150 year sesquicentenary celebrations in late December, provided we have sufficient material to tell the story properly,” Mr
Bristow said.
“CTC Secretary and Timeline History editor Mark Lee, has already dubbed this project ‘Volume One’, because we expect even more information to emerge once the first edition is released.”
“We know there are countless stories, photographs and pieces of memorabilia sitting in family collections throughout the district. Every item helps us build a clearer picture of our history in time and preserve it for future generations.”
Community members with historical material relating to the Cootamundra Turf Club or the Cootamundra Cup are encouraged to contact the club and contribute to the celebration of 150 years of country racing heritage in Cootamundra and Riverina district.
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