Next weekend is not only a long weekend, but also time for the social highlight on the Parkes calendar. On Saturday, 9th June the gates will open at 11:30am at the Parkes Racecourse for the annual Parkes Picnic Races. The first race of the five-race program will start at 12:30pm.
One of the Central West’s most prestigious Fashions on the Field competitions will take place once again with fantastic cash and prizes on offer. The guest judge this year is Julie Herbert of Julie Herbert Millinery Creations from Orange. The categories this year are Contemporary, Elegant Lady, Stylish Man and Millinery.
The Contemporary category is your chance to show your unique style with that race-day look for those who dare to be different. It’s a category for both men and women! The Elegant Lady category is the most prestigious of the day for those who showcase pure style and elegance.
The Stylish Man category is for gents who consider extra detail and stand out in the crowd. The Millinery category is for ladies who turn heads with their headwear. Go the Parkes Picnic Races website or Facebook page for more details and requirements to be competing in the different categories.
The judging of Fashion on the Field will start at 3pm at the Picnic Stage. There will be loads of entertainment including live music provided by local band Gerholm Jonson. The racecourse provides full bar and betting facilities along with a range of catering services available on course throughout the day. A range of catered marquees will be on site offering packaged food and beverage tickets with seating available.
You are welcome to bring along your own food hampers and picnic on the grass, however the racecourse is a licensed venue so no alcohol is to be brought onto the grounds. “We are expecting a good crowd,” said Stafford Orange of the organising committee.
He said entry tickets were still available at the Cambridge, Parkes and Railway Hotels, as well as the Tourism Office, or at the gate on the day. Start planning your outfit, gather your group together for a great day out and possibly catching up with long lost friends.