Spring racing? Go local

By Kath Gannaway
FORGET the rush and crush of Flemington – when it comes to Spring Racing, it’s all happening right here in the Yarra Valley.
Healesville Amateur Racing Club is first away with their Derby Day meeting on Saturday 31 October.
The racecourse is the perfect setting for a family day out with plenty of lawn space and shaded areas for spreading a picnic. The racing is keen with the first race on Derby Day starting at 1.15pm.
The feeling of being close to the action wherever you are around the course adds to the race-day atmosphere.
For once-a-year punters, Healesville runs a $20 punters club – takes the guess work out of picking a horse, but not the fun of having an on-track interest.
On Cup Day, Tuesday 3 November, the race-day action is at Yarra Glen.
It’s one of the biggest days on the Yarra Valley racing calendar and the biggest harness meeting in the southern hemisphere.
It’s a day to enjoy the racing, food, wine and fashion with a country flavour.