This year our Christmas Party was held at the Austrian Club at Mawson. There was a great turnout by members, many of whom got into the spirit of "The Sound of Music" in honour of the movie's 50th anniversary.
A popular Canberra band, The Second Movement played all evening with a combination of golden oldies and songs from The Sound of Music.
A highlight the evening was a performance by the Austrian Club Choir. They sang a combination of hits from The Sound of Music and traditional Christmas songs and carols. An excerpt of their performance is below.
During the evening Sue organised a German hat swapping contest with 2 teams selected from the audience. It was great fun, with most people demonstrably unable to put a hat on their head. Maybe this should have been done before any drinking started and people lost their ability to coordinate.
The dinner continued long into the night with many members taking the opportunity to dance to the fabulous band that belted out hit after hit that we could all dance and sing to.
A slideshow of the evening is below. If you can't see the slideshow, click here. Below this is a link to a recording of the choir singing one of the songs from the Sound of Music. I wasn't sure how the video would turn out from my position at the back of the room, and unfortunately I was standing behind some noisy eaters (you know who you are!), so there is a bit of dinner noise along with the singing.
The choir singing one of their songs
Saturday, December 19, 2015
Saturday, December 5, 2015
Cooma Cup 2015
In December, a group of members headed off to Cooma for the running of the Cooma Cup.
I don't know much about what went on, but from the pictures they captured it looks like they had a great time. And from the photos it seems that no unattached man was safe that day.
Congratulations to Val for coming second in the Best Dressed Woman category.
A slideshow is below. If you can't see it, click here.
I don't know much about what went on, but from the pictures they captured it looks like they had a great time. And from the photos it seems that no unattached man was safe that day.
Congratulations to Val for coming second in the Best Dressed Woman category.
A slideshow is below. If you can't see it, click here.
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Retina Lunch
Once again members of Women in Racing supported the fundraising lunch for Retina Australia ACT.
The lunch was held in the Rich Rewards room at Thoroughbred Park, with many members attending.
The lunch started with a welcome glass of champagne or wine and an opportunity to socialise with the other attendees.
MC for the day was David Kilby who is Patron of RA (ACT).
Robin Poke, President of Retina Australia ACT gave an introductory speech and was followed by Chris Burton who suffers from Retinitis Pigmentosa. Chris gave a talk about his new hi-tech glasses that have significantly returned some of his vision and have allowed him to continue his engineering degree. His glasses include a digital camera linked to a pair of small monitor screens and allow him to zoom in and adjust the image to maximise his ability to see. The glasses cost him $20K and required him to fly to Canada to get them.
During the afternoon we had a monster raffle with many members winning prizes.
Following a most excellent lunch of barbequed steak, chicken, gourmet sausages and various salad, Gordon Scott of Elders Real Estate Belconnen ran an auction where attendees snapped up bargain artwork, memorabilia, decorator items, and other items.
Of course, the races continued all afternoon with some people winning big, I am sure. A great day was had by all. A slideshow of the day is below, and if you can't see it, click here.
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The lunch was held in the Rich Rewards room at Thoroughbred Park, with many members attending.
The lunch started with a welcome glass of champagne or wine and an opportunity to socialise with the other attendees.
MC for the day was David Kilby who is Patron of RA (ACT).
Robin Poke, President of Retina Australia ACT gave an introductory speech and was followed by Chris Burton who suffers from Retinitis Pigmentosa. Chris gave a talk about his new hi-tech glasses that have significantly returned some of his vision and have allowed him to continue his engineering degree. His glasses include a digital camera linked to a pair of small monitor screens and allow him to zoom in and adjust the image to maximise his ability to see. The glasses cost him $20K and required him to fly to Canada to get them.
During the afternoon we had a monster raffle with many members winning prizes.
Following a most excellent lunch of barbequed steak, chicken, gourmet sausages and various salad, Gordon Scott of Elders Real Estate Belconnen ran an auction where attendees snapped up bargain artwork, memorabilia, decorator items, and other items.
Of course, the races continued all afternoon with some people winning big, I am sure. A great day was had by all. A slideshow of the day is below, and if you can't see it, click here.
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Friday, October 16, 2015
Charity Lunch
This year's charity lunch was in support of Alzheimers Australia ACT.
It was held at the Hellenic Club, and was well-attended, both by Women In Racing members, and members of other charities showing their support.
Attendees were entertained by a fashion show modelled by our own members and a few fashionistas like Josh Burgess who has won more than a few Fashions on the Field titles.
The guest speaker was Julia Ritchie, racehorse owner and breeder, and the first woman elected to the Australian Jockey Club committee. She gave a run down of her entry into the racing business and her career in film-making as a production manager with involvement in iconic horse movies Phar Lap and Archer. Her horse Vancouver recently won the $3.5 million Golden Slipper and she brought her trophy along for people to look at and have their photo taken with.
Governor-General and Lady Cosgrove recorded a video message for the event, thanking Women In Racing for their support of charities such as Alzheimers Australia and in particular the work of Sue King.
A slideshow of the event is shown below. If you can't see it, click here.
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It was held at the Hellenic Club, and was well-attended, both by Women In Racing members, and members of other charities showing their support.
Attendees were entertained by a fashion show modelled by our own members and a few fashionistas like Josh Burgess who has won more than a few Fashions on the Field titles.
The guest speaker was Julia Ritchie, racehorse owner and breeder, and the first woman elected to the Australian Jockey Club committee. She gave a run down of her entry into the racing business and her career in film-making as a production manager with involvement in iconic horse movies Phar Lap and Archer. Her horse Vancouver recently won the $3.5 million Golden Slipper and she brought her trophy along for people to look at and have their photo taken with.
Governor-General and Lady Cosgrove recorded a video message for the event, thanking Women In Racing for their support of charities such as Alzheimers Australia and in particular the work of Sue King.
A slideshow of the event is shown below. If you can't see it, click here.
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Saturday, September 19, 2015
Wagga Races and Kooringal Stud
This month we had a day trip to the Wagga Wagga races, and a visit to the Kooringal Stud that is just outside Wagga.
Once on the bus we had our traditional warm ham croissants for breakfast, washed down with a glass of champagne or two. We then stopped for morning tea in the sunshine at Gundagai. According to Google (that knows everything apparently) we stopped for exactly 36 minutes. A highlight of the stop was that we celebrated Les' birthday with a cake.
Before going to the races, we stopped at Kooringal Stud (that Google tells me is at Junee). We were shown around the extensive property by Stuart Lamont, one of the Stud Principals. He shared the history of the property that has been in his family for several generations and explained how they have diversified into sheep, canola and wheat. We visited the breeding shed and the stalls where the recent foals and their mothers were housed - they keep them contained until the foals are strong enough to go into the paddocks.
While there, Mick & Jan James, and Bob and Lyn Barlow were introduced to the sire The Brothers War who hopefully has earnt his stud fee with their horse Knucklemania.
We continued on to the Murrumbidgee Turf Club, arriving at 12:34pm (thanks, Google). There was a very large turnout at the racecourse as it was Uni Day, with uni students from near and far attending. We were told later that the attendance was about 6,500 and that the racecourse was about to run out of food and drink.
Because we had a larger than expected number of people on the trip, the budget was able to be extended to provide lunch for us all. We had a reserved undercover area and a great lunch of barbecued steak, sausages, and salads.
The weather couldn't have been better, and we all had a great time. We were back in Canberra at about 9pm.
A slideshow of the day is below. As usual, if you can't see the slideshow, click here.
Once on the bus we had our traditional warm ham croissants for breakfast, washed down with a glass of champagne or two. We then stopped for morning tea in the sunshine at Gundagai. According to Google (that knows everything apparently) we stopped for exactly 36 minutes. A highlight of the stop was that we celebrated Les' birthday with a cake.
Before going to the races, we stopped at Kooringal Stud (that Google tells me is at Junee). We were shown around the extensive property by Stuart Lamont, one of the Stud Principals. He shared the history of the property that has been in his family for several generations and explained how they have diversified into sheep, canola and wheat. We visited the breeding shed and the stalls where the recent foals and their mothers were housed - they keep them contained until the foals are strong enough to go into the paddocks.
While there, Mick & Jan James, and Bob and Lyn Barlow were introduced to the sire The Brothers War who hopefully has earnt his stud fee with their horse Knucklemania.
We continued on to the Murrumbidgee Turf Club, arriving at 12:34pm (thanks, Google). There was a very large turnout at the racecourse as it was Uni Day, with uni students from near and far attending. We were told later that the attendance was about 6,500 and that the racecourse was about to run out of food and drink.
Because we had a larger than expected number of people on the trip, the budget was able to be extended to provide lunch for us all. We had a reserved undercover area and a great lunch of barbecued steak, sausages, and salads.
The weather couldn't have been better, and we all had a great time. We were back in Canberra at about 9pm.
A slideshow of the day is below. As usual, if you can't see the slideshow, click here.
Sunday, August 16, 2015
AGM 2015
This year our AGM was shifted to the Realm Hotel because the Brassey Hotel is no longer available. We were well looked after at the Realm, with a light airy room, plenty of space, and great food.
As members arrived and signed in, many picked up their new Women in Racing name tags. In her President's Report later in the AGM, Sue said that cost of producing the old badges was just too high now, and the new name tags are far more cost-effective and don't have to be ordered in large batches.
We started with drinks in the ballroom foyer and then proceeded inside for the AGM.
The AGM started with Mary presenting the Treasurer's Report, followed by Sue who gave the President's Report.
Rosey and Jan James then gave a rundown about some of the memorable outings that we'd had this year.
As usual, the AGM is the time when we elect a new committee and this year was no exception. The only difference this year was that we had more nominations than positions available so we had to institute a vote. This was the first time ever, and it shows we have a great group of people wanting to contribute.
This year we had Peter Stubbs as a guest speaker. Peter is the CEO of Thoroughbred Park. He gave a talk about the synthetic track at the racecourse and how it needed to be replaced. He explained about the racecourse's satisfactory experience with the surface and what it has learnt from it. The racecourse is now planning to replace the surface with a new combination of materials that it has determined will provide additional life.
We finished off the day with lunch and a lot of socialising. A great day was had by all.
Photos of the day are below. If you can't see the slideshow, click here.
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As members arrived and signed in, many picked up their new Women in Racing name tags. In her President's Report later in the AGM, Sue said that cost of producing the old badges was just too high now, and the new name tags are far more cost-effective and don't have to be ordered in large batches.
We started with drinks in the ballroom foyer and then proceeded inside for the AGM.
The AGM started with Mary presenting the Treasurer's Report, followed by Sue who gave the President's Report.
Rosey and Jan James then gave a rundown about some of the memorable outings that we'd had this year.
As usual, the AGM is the time when we elect a new committee and this year was no exception. The only difference this year was that we had more nominations than positions available so we had to institute a vote. This was the first time ever, and it shows we have a great group of people wanting to contribute.
This year we had Peter Stubbs as a guest speaker. Peter is the CEO of Thoroughbred Park. He gave a talk about the synthetic track at the racecourse and how it needed to be replaced. He explained about the racecourse's satisfactory experience with the surface and what it has learnt from it. The racecourse is now planning to replace the surface with a new combination of materials that it has determined will provide additional life.
We finished off the day with lunch and a lot of socialising. A great day was had by all.
Photos of the day are below. If you can't see the slideshow, click here.
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Sunday, July 26, 2015
Meet and Greet
This year Jan and Mick volunteered their house for the annual meet and greet function.
There was great turn-up from the members, and there was plenty of food and champagne to go around, all prepared by the various Committee members.
Sue announced that Phillippa was stepping down from the committee and thanked her for all her contributions. She also identified some of the social events coming up, including those that were confirmed and some still in the planning stages.
A few pictures of the day are below in the slideshow. If you can't see this, then click here.
There was great turn-up from the members, and there was plenty of food and champagne to go around, all prepared by the various Committee members.
Sue announced that Phillippa was stepping down from the committee and thanked her for all her contributions. She also identified some of the social events coming up, including those that were confirmed and some still in the planning stages.
A few pictures of the day are below in the slideshow. If you can't see this, then click here.
Saturday, June 27, 2015
Games Afternoon 2015
For the last time ever, the Brassey Hotel was the location of our annual games afternoon. Unfortunately the Brassey has been sold and the function rooms won't be available for hire any more. Despite the somewhat sad occasion, everyone was in good spirits and out to enjoy themselves.
Accompanied by champagne, we played bingo, and answered trivia questions. There was also a set of mathematical problems for those who could count without using their fingers. One problem was ti work out the number of handshakes a group of 9 people could have if they only shook hands with someone once. The only way people could be sure was to stand up and do it!
Everyone had come prepared with a horse racing joke, so one-by-one people got up and told their jokes. Unfortunately someone ruined Mick's thunder by telling his joke first, so he managed to re-tell the 30-second joke as a 10-minute saga.
Everybody had come dressed as either Gai Waterhouse or Bart Cummings. So there was a lot of choice in the Best Of competitions. Dawn won Best Gai and Keith won Best Bart.
At the end of the day the scores were added up by Lee and Jan and the competition winners announced. The winners won a dinner at Sue and Gerd's with the runners' up winning a lunch at Lyn and Bob's farm.
A slideshow of the day is below. If you can't see it, click here.
Accompanied by champagne, we played bingo, and answered trivia questions. There was also a set of mathematical problems for those who could count without using their fingers. One problem was ti work out the number of handshakes a group of 9 people could have if they only shook hands with someone once. The only way people could be sure was to stand up and do it!
Everyone had come prepared with a horse racing joke, so one-by-one people got up and told their jokes. Unfortunately someone ruined Mick's thunder by telling his joke first, so he managed to re-tell the 30-second joke as a 10-minute saga.
Everybody had come dressed as either Gai Waterhouse or Bart Cummings. So there was a lot of choice in the Best Of competitions. Dawn won Best Gai and Keith won Best Bart.
At the end of the day the scores were added up by Lee and Jan and the competition winners announced. The winners won a dinner at Sue and Gerd's with the runners' up winning a lunch at Lyn and Bob's farm.
A slideshow of the day is below. If you can't see it, click here.
Sunday, May 3, 2015
Kentucky Derby 2015
For the first time, Women in Racing this month celebrated the 141st running of the Kentucky Derby.
We met at the Forrest Lodge Motel, which has a great function room with an outdoor glass annex that allowed people to sit inside or sit outside in the warm Autumn sun. There was also plenty of room for people to move around and socialise or to remain at their table if they wanted. Over 70 people attended.
The tables were decorated with Kentucky Derby souvenirs that had been specially imported for the event. On each table was a history of the Kentucky Derby that someone at that table needed to memorise in a quiz later in the day. I overheard many people claiming failing memory in the hope that someone else would volunteer for the job.
The event started with champagne and socialising at 2pm. Later, we sat helped ourselves to a generous afternoon tea of sandwiches, profiteroles, cake, apple crumble, and chocolate.
During the afternoon we sold sweep tickets for the Kentucky Derby that had been run a few hours earlier in the US. We then played a recorded copy of the race, with nobody caring that it was a replay.
Afterwoods we had our own Fashions on the Field competitions for Best Hat, Best Dressed Woman, and Best Dressed couple. You'll have to look at the photos below to see who won what.
After some more drinks and food, we held the Kentucky Derby quiz with contestants being eliminated left and right, until Sharyn stepped up to the plate and took the prize.
It was a great day, with congratulations to the committee that made it such a success.
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We met at the Forrest Lodge Motel, which has a great function room with an outdoor glass annex that allowed people to sit inside or sit outside in the warm Autumn sun. There was also plenty of room for people to move around and socialise or to remain at their table if they wanted. Over 70 people attended.
The tables were decorated with Kentucky Derby souvenirs that had been specially imported for the event. On each table was a history of the Kentucky Derby that someone at that table needed to memorise in a quiz later in the day. I overheard many people claiming failing memory in the hope that someone else would volunteer for the job.
The event started with champagne and socialising at 2pm. Later, we sat helped ourselves to a generous afternoon tea of sandwiches, profiteroles, cake, apple crumble, and chocolate.
During the afternoon we sold sweep tickets for the Kentucky Derby that had been run a few hours earlier in the US. We then played a recorded copy of the race, with nobody caring that it was a replay.
Afterwoods we had our own Fashions on the Field competitions for Best Hat, Best Dressed Woman, and Best Dressed couple. You'll have to look at the photos below to see who won what.
After some more drinks and food, we held the Kentucky Derby quiz with contestants being eliminated left and right, until Sharyn stepped up to the plate and took the prize.
It was a great day, with congratulations to the committee that made it such a success.
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Monday, February 23, 2015
Members' Lunch 2015
As in past years, the Members' Lunch was held in Silks Restaurant at the Canberra racecourse. The weather was great, which only added to the day. The room was full of members.
The event was opened by Sue, who introduced our guests for the day:
There were three milliners present, with tables of hats that drew many of the members like a moth to a flame.
In between races we held our own Fashion on the Field competition. Best Dressed Lady went to Ellnor Grassby. Best Dressed Man was Josh Burgess, Best Couple were Franca and Dayle, Best Hat originally went to Debra Parrish, but as she donated one of her own creations as a prize, she had to pick a runner up - this went to Karyn Peyton, Best Male Hat to John Howe, Best Tie to Mick James. Our judges for the day were Debra, Trish and Sky.
After the running of the Lightning Ridge Plate, Sky Holland, the Opal Queen, was introduced to the owner of the winning horse and her trainer Graz Vella.
All-in-all a great day was had by all. A slideshow is below. If you can't see it, click here.
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The event was opened by Sue, who introduced our guests for the day:
- Sky Holland - the 2014/15 Lightning Ridge Opal Queen
- Trish Bradley - the 2015 Narooma Cup Fashions on the Field winner
- John and Neroli Bevan from Lightning Ridge
- Dr Chris Ward, Chairman of the Canberra Racing Club
There were three milliners present, with tables of hats that drew many of the members like a moth to a flame.
In between races we held our own Fashion on the Field competition. Best Dressed Lady went to Ellnor Grassby. Best Dressed Man was Josh Burgess, Best Couple were Franca and Dayle, Best Hat originally went to Debra Parrish, but as she donated one of her own creations as a prize, she had to pick a runner up - this went to Karyn Peyton, Best Male Hat to John Howe, Best Tie to Mick James. Our judges for the day were Debra, Trish and Sky.
After the running of the Lightning Ridge Plate, Sky Holland, the Opal Queen, was introduced to the owner of the winning horse and her trainer Graz Vella.
All-in-all a great day was had by all. A slideshow is below. If you can't see it, click here.
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Sunday, December 14, 2014
Christmas Party 2014
This year our Christmas Party was a double-header. Firstly we visited the National Museum to see "Spirited: Australia's Horse Story" and then headed back to Sue & Gerd's for a cocktail party. The Spirited exhibition was the one that Women In Racing supported earlier on in the year by attending a champagne breakfast overlooking lake.
To make it easier, the excursion to the National Museum both started and ended at Sue's place. When we arrived there was a long "Moonlight Stretch Limo" waiting that must have had capacity for over a hundred people.
We headed off to the Museum via the Arboretum, where the bus made a quick tour and allowed people to see how it had progressed. As with any WiR trip, champagne and beer accompanied us.
When we got to the Museum and exhibition, Sue pointed out the Acknowledgements board at the entrance that recognised Women In Racing's support for the organisation of the event.
We were free to wander around the exhibit, which displayed a lot of early horse memorabilia - some of which was familiar to some of our members from their youth or from stories handed down from their parents.
After the exhibition we headed back on the bus to Sue and Gerd's house for the cocktail party. Willo won the prize for best Christmas outfit, with Marj coming a close second.
Thanks to all the Committee for organising such a great event.
Photos of the day are in the following slideshow. If you can't see the slideshow in your browser, then click here.
To make it easier, the excursion to the National Museum both started and ended at Sue's place. When we arrived there was a long "Moonlight Stretch Limo" waiting that must have had capacity for over a hundred people.
We headed off to the Museum via the Arboretum, where the bus made a quick tour and allowed people to see how it had progressed. As with any WiR trip, champagne and beer accompanied us.
When we got to the Museum and exhibition, Sue pointed out the Acknowledgements board at the entrance that recognised Women In Racing's support for the organisation of the event.
We were free to wander around the exhibit, which displayed a lot of early horse memorabilia - some of which was familiar to some of our members from their youth or from stories handed down from their parents.
After the exhibition we headed back on the bus to Sue and Gerd's house for the cocktail party. Willo won the prize for best Christmas outfit, with Marj coming a close second.
Thanks to all the Committee for organising such a great event.
Photos of the day are in the following slideshow. If you can't see the slideshow in your browser, then click here.
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Canterbury Night Races
This year, a new event on the Women In Racing agenda was a trip to the Canterbury night races in Sydney.
Some of us met up at the Canberra racecourse to be picked up by the coach at 2pm. The temperature was in the high 30's and we we soaked with sweat by the time the coach arrived. We were looking forward to getting out of the heat, and were surprised to find the coach not much cooler. Michael explained that the coach would take a bit of time to cool down, so we sat back and waited while we headed north to Sydney.
We waited for the coach to cool down, and waited, and waited. But it stayed hot and uncomfortable for the whole trip. At least we had lots of ice cold champagne to drink.
We arrived at about 6pm and were glad to get out of the coach an into the cooler evening air.
Fortunately Canterbury has reciprocal arrangements with Canberra, so after showing our Canberra members' cards, we were given Canterbury guest member passes. It was a $5 entry, $5 food, and $5 drink evening as well.
Canterbury is larger than Canberra, and had several levels in their stand. We headed up to the top level and took over one of the bar areas, with Les and Steve negotiating with the bar staff to avoid having to pay for the lounge seating. There was a great atmosphere at Canterbury with quite a large number of people there for an evening's entertainment.
The races started at 7pm the finished at 10pm, with most of the races running under strong floodlights. The horses didn't seem to mind at all.
By the time it was time to leave the temperature had dropped a lot, so the faulty coach airconditioning wasn't a problem. We had an uneventful trip back to Canberra, with many dozing off on the way. We got back to Canberra at about 2am and everybody was looking forward to their beds.
Overall, we had a great time. A slideshow of the day are below. If you can't see the slideshow, then click here.
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Some of us met up at the Canberra racecourse to be picked up by the coach at 2pm. The temperature was in the high 30's and we we soaked with sweat by the time the coach arrived. We were looking forward to getting out of the heat, and were surprised to find the coach not much cooler. Michael explained that the coach would take a bit of time to cool down, so we sat back and waited while we headed north to Sydney.
We waited for the coach to cool down, and waited, and waited. But it stayed hot and uncomfortable for the whole trip. At least we had lots of ice cold champagne to drink.
We arrived at about 6pm and were glad to get out of the coach an into the cooler evening air.
Fortunately Canterbury has reciprocal arrangements with Canberra, so after showing our Canberra members' cards, we were given Canterbury guest member passes. It was a $5 entry, $5 food, and $5 drink evening as well.
Canterbury is larger than Canberra, and had several levels in their stand. We headed up to the top level and took over one of the bar areas, with Les and Steve negotiating with the bar staff to avoid having to pay for the lounge seating. There was a great atmosphere at Canterbury with quite a large number of people there for an evening's entertainment.
The races started at 7pm the finished at 10pm, with most of the races running under strong floodlights. The horses didn't seem to mind at all.
By the time it was time to leave the temperature had dropped a lot, so the faulty coach airconditioning wasn't a problem. We had an uneventful trip back to Canberra, with many dozing off on the way. We got back to Canberra at about 2am and everybody was looking forward to their beds.
Overall, we had a great time. A slideshow of the day are below. If you can't see the slideshow, then click here.
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Monday, November 3, 2014
Derby Day
This year, to join in the Melbourne Cup week festivities, we held our own Derby Day at Meriden, Lynne and Bob Barlow's property just outside Canberra. All the women dressed in the traditional black and white theme of Derby Day.
There was plenty of food and drink to help pass the afternoon, with the rain fortunately holding off so we had some great weather.
Naomi, Karyn, Lee, and Kelly organised sweeps for the Victoria Derby and much of their afternoon was spent trying to get enough change for the various winners' envelopes. The lesson learnt for next year is to not let people pay for sweep tickets with $50 notes!
Nearly all women entered the Best Dressed Woman competition, and I think that Dawn was hard-pressed to select a winner as there were so many well turned-out gals. Franca won the honor with her black-themed arm sling.
Pictures of the day are below. If you can't see the slideshow, then click here.
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There was plenty of food and drink to help pass the afternoon, with the rain fortunately holding off so we had some great weather.
Naomi, Karyn, Lee, and Kelly organised sweeps for the Victoria Derby and much of their afternoon was spent trying to get enough change for the various winners' envelopes. The lesson learnt for next year is to not let people pay for sweep tickets with $50 notes!
Nearly all women entered the Best Dressed Woman competition, and I think that Dawn was hard-pressed to select a winner as there were so many well turned-out gals. Franca won the honor with her black-themed arm sling.
Pictures of the day are below. If you can't see the slideshow, then click here.
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Sunday, October 12, 2014
Convertibles Rally
Once again members of Women in Racing made their convertible cars available for the annual Convertible Rally that raised a significant amount of money for charity.
The rally started off from Peter and Wanda's beautiful house in Duffy. The azaleas were in full bloom, and the weather was unexpectedly perfect, given the previous few days of wind and drizzle.
The event started with drinks at the house as people arrived for the outing. At about 10am we headed off in a convoy that progressively broke up as each set of traffic lights seemed to separate the cars. We had a beautiful drive south; the sun was shining and the landscape was still green.
We stopped for a quick morning tea, and then headed into Breadbo. Some headed off to the investigate the classic architecture of the local pub, while others walked down to the Christmas Barn.
It was years since I was last there, and I was surprised at how well it was organised and how pleasant it was to browse.
Some of our WiR members organised lunch at the local community hall having brought all the food and drink from Canberra. So we arrived there to find it set up for an elaborate picnic lunch.
After a sumptuous lunch, we jumped into our cars for the trip back to Canberra.
A slideshow of the day is below. If you can't see the slideshow, click here.
Thank you to Wanda and all the other volunteers to made it such an enjoyable day.
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The rally started off from Peter and Wanda's beautiful house in Duffy. The azaleas were in full bloom, and the weather was unexpectedly perfect, given the previous few days of wind and drizzle.
The event started with drinks at the house as people arrived for the outing. At about 10am we headed off in a convoy that progressively broke up as each set of traffic lights seemed to separate the cars. We had a beautiful drive south; the sun was shining and the landscape was still green.
We stopped for a quick morning tea, and then headed into Breadbo. Some headed off to the investigate the classic architecture of the local pub, while others walked down to the Christmas Barn.
It was years since I was last there, and I was surprised at how well it was organised and how pleasant it was to browse.
Some of our WiR members organised lunch at the local community hall having brought all the food and drink from Canberra. So we arrived there to find it set up for an elaborate picnic lunch.
After a sumptuous lunch, we jumped into our cars for the trip back to Canberra.
A slideshow of the day is below. If you can't see the slideshow, click here.
Thank you to Wanda and all the other volunteers to made it such an enjoyable day.
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Saturday, August 16, 2014
Annual General Meeting 2014
Once again our AGM was held at the Brassey Hotel in Barton. It was remarkably well-attended.
After getting our names marked off by Maria at the door, we caught up with friends and sipped on champagne. There was a selection of Christine Waring hats for those perpetually looking for a new outfit.
The meeting started with Catherine outlining the activities and achievements over the past year. Mary then gave the Treasurer's report, and Sue gave a report on the various trips and events on the Women in Racing calendar.
Catherine announced that due for personal reasons she was standing down as President. This was met with disappointment by the members, and various people congratulated her on her past performance and wished her well.
Sue gave a brief run-down on how the Committee operated, with most planning for the year happening in February when the broad calendar of functions and trips were scheduled. She explained that despite their best plans, sometimes there were conflicts with other racing events, or proximity to public holidays that made it difficult for some people to attend. She also explained that at some times of the year, such as January and Easter, it was almost impossible to organise events so groups of members just arranged to meet at some town or racecourse for the day and she would help organise accommodation or transport for them.
Naomi and Vic gave an entertaining review of the recent trip to Lightning Ridge (the last one, ever). It was clear that everyone had a great time.
Rosie then gave a review of a recent trip that she, Mary, and Sue, took to the Hunter Valley. From all accounts it was a harrowing drive with Sue at the wheel and the others hanging on for grim life. They hadn't even realised that Gerd's car had a sports mode before then. She explained how much work went into planning one of our bus trips, and the need to sort out motels, meal locations, places to see, and things to do.
Mick James then announced the new Committee for the coming year.
"Other Business" was the final AGM agenda item, that there was a lively discussion about how the committee works and how we should establish some succession planning to ensure a smooth transition if any of the experienced Committee members left. It is clear that we have an effective team now.
Below is a slideshow of the day. If you can't see the slideshow then click here.
After the AGM ended, Christine Waring gave a talk about how accessories can produce different looks and expand you number of outfits. With the help of a model who was finalist in this year's Face of Canberra Racing, she explained how with just two dresses you could attend each of the major Melbourne Cup carnival race meetings, meeting the dress code of each provided you had the hats, gloves, and purses. Using Gerd as an assistant, she showed how nice girls dressed when accompanying an older man as his "niece".
Here are some photos of Christine's model, showing the various looks she was able to produce by changing the accessories.
Here is Gerd enjoying the company of his "niece".
A more fun look, also holding the raffle prize....
After getting our names marked off by Maria at the door, we caught up with friends and sipped on champagne. There was a selection of Christine Waring hats for those perpetually looking for a new outfit.
The meeting started with Catherine outlining the activities and achievements over the past year. Mary then gave the Treasurer's report, and Sue gave a report on the various trips and events on the Women in Racing calendar.
Catherine announced that due for personal reasons she was standing down as President. This was met with disappointment by the members, and various people congratulated her on her past performance and wished her well.
Sue gave a brief run-down on how the Committee operated, with most planning for the year happening in February when the broad calendar of functions and trips were scheduled. She explained that despite their best plans, sometimes there were conflicts with other racing events, or proximity to public holidays that made it difficult for some people to attend. She also explained that at some times of the year, such as January and Easter, it was almost impossible to organise events so groups of members just arranged to meet at some town or racecourse for the day and she would help organise accommodation or transport for them.
Naomi and Vic gave an entertaining review of the recent trip to Lightning Ridge (the last one, ever). It was clear that everyone had a great time.
Rosie then gave a review of a recent trip that she, Mary, and Sue, took to the Hunter Valley. From all accounts it was a harrowing drive with Sue at the wheel and the others hanging on for grim life. They hadn't even realised that Gerd's car had a sports mode before then. She explained how much work went into planning one of our bus trips, and the need to sort out motels, meal locations, places to see, and things to do.
Mick James then announced the new Committee for the coming year.
"Other Business" was the final AGM agenda item, that there was a lively discussion about how the committee works and how we should establish some succession planning to ensure a smooth transition if any of the experienced Committee members left. It is clear that we have an effective team now.
Below is a slideshow of the day. If you can't see the slideshow then click here.
After the AGM ended, Christine Waring gave a talk about how accessories can produce different looks and expand you number of outfits. With the help of a model who was finalist in this year's Face of Canberra Racing, she explained how with just two dresses you could attend each of the major Melbourne Cup carnival race meetings, meeting the dress code of each provided you had the hats, gloves, and purses. Using Gerd as an assistant, she showed how nice girls dressed when accompanying an older man as his "niece".
Here are some photos of Christine's model, showing the various looks she was able to produce by changing the accessories.
 |  |  |
Here is Gerd enjoying the company of his "niece".
A more fun look, also holding the raffle prize....
Sunday, July 13, 2014
A Spirited Brunch
Canberra's Women in Racing enthusiastically supported a fund-raising event recently at the National Museum of Australia. The event was in aid of an upcoming exhibition about the history of horses in Australia.
The event was a Brunch in one of the function rooms overlooking the lake.
We received a glass of champagne on arrival and mingled with the other guests. By far the majority were from Women in Racing.
After filling our plates from the buffet we listened to a very entertaining talk by Kirsten Wehner, Head Curator of the exhibition. A country girl herself, Kirsten spoke knowledgeably about horses and gave an overview of what is planned for the exhibition. She gave an insight to the preparations for the exhibition and the research that they had to do, including sourcing relevant exhibits. Some exhibits have required a great deal of repair and refurbishment, so when we see the actual exhibition we'll all appreciate the amount of work that has gone into it.
There was a fashion parade, and a calcutta-like event where they ran a newsreel of the 1965 Melbourne Cup. The winner picked up a great hat by Christine Waring. For those of you with a good memory, it was won by Light Fingers.
Photos of the day are below. If you can't see the slideshow, the click here.
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The event was a Brunch in one of the function rooms overlooking the lake.
We received a glass of champagne on arrival and mingled with the other guests. By far the majority were from Women in Racing.
After filling our plates from the buffet we listened to a very entertaining talk by Kirsten Wehner, Head Curator of the exhibition. A country girl herself, Kirsten spoke knowledgeably about horses and gave an overview of what is planned for the exhibition. She gave an insight to the preparations for the exhibition and the research that they had to do, including sourcing relevant exhibits. Some exhibits have required a great deal of repair and refurbishment, so when we see the actual exhibition we'll all appreciate the amount of work that has gone into it.
There was a fashion parade, and a calcutta-like event where they ran a newsreel of the 1965 Melbourne Cup. The winner picked up a great hat by Christine Waring. For those of you with a good memory, it was won by Light Fingers.
Photos of the day are below. If you can't see the slideshow, the click here.
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Saturday, May 31, 2014
Games Afternoon
Once again we had a very successful games afternoon at the Brassey Hotel.
The theme this year was "masks", and everyone came prepared as you can see from the photos below. Unfortunately some of the masks were so good that I can't work out who's wearing them. So you'll have to try and work it out yourself.
Fuelled by a few drinks and afternoon tea, we battled through several rounds of quizzes, ranging from the history of horse racing, to geography, and pop music (of course - nothing after 1990), and 'who-am-I's.
At the end of the day, various prizes were handed out to the winning tables, ranging from Italian dinners, high tea, to do-it-yourself cocktail parties.
A great time was had by all.
If you can't see the slideshow below, click here.
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The theme this year was "masks", and everyone came prepared as you can see from the photos below. Unfortunately some of the masks were so good that I can't work out who's wearing them. So you'll have to try and work it out yourself.
Fuelled by a few drinks and afternoon tea, we battled through several rounds of quizzes, ranging from the history of horse racing, to geography, and pop music (of course - nothing after 1990), and 'who-am-I's.
At the end of the day, various prizes were handed out to the winning tables, ranging from Italian dinners, high tea, to do-it-yourself cocktail parties.
A great time was had by all.
If you can't see the slideshow below, click here.
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Saturday, March 29, 2014
Capricorn Park
I think many of us have driven past Capricorn Park over the years on the way to and from Murrumbateman or Yass and wondered what it was like inside the gates. This month we got to find out.
Rob Potter is now training horses at Capricorn Park and offered to show us around.
We turned up at 9:30am and started with bubbles, of course, while we caught up with our friends. Rob gave us a brief history of the Park, and described the facilities.
After the talk, we headed off for a walk around the Park. We had a leisurely walk around until we found ourselves about 1km down the 1300m straight track. With the track heading off into the distance, we realised that once we got to the other end we'd just have to turn around and walk all the way back, so we decided to just turn around and head back. By that time, most people had also drained their wine glasses, so they were anxious for a refill. While everyone was dithering around, a few horses started trotting down the track, so there was a scramble for everyone to get onto the other side of the safety fence.
Eventually, we wandered back to the gardens where we had set up the BBQ. On the way, some of us walked over to the 9-hole golf course on the property that was just waiting for somebody to tee-off. But it was empty.
We had a guessing competition while we were waiting for lunch. Rob brought out a horse whose weight we had to guess. Surprisingly, Cathy Hart, a recent member of Women in Racing, estimated the weight exactly. We also had a wine tasting from Robert Oatley Wines, courtesy of Vic Cowlishaw, one of our WiR members.
Rob took us for a wander through the extensive facilities in Capricorn Park. We were surprised to see the large number of empty stalls and unused training equipment such as horse walkers and swimming pool. It was clear that the Park can hold many more horses than the 10 or 12 there currently.
After the wander, we enjoyed a great BBQ cooked by Gerd and Burl, with plenty of rolls and salad for self-made hamburgers.
The weather was great all day, and we all enjoyed the outing.
A slideshow is below. If you can't see it, click here.
.
.
Rob Potter is now training horses at Capricorn Park and offered to show us around.
We turned up at 9:30am and started with bubbles, of course, while we caught up with our friends. Rob gave us a brief history of the Park, and described the facilities.
After the talk, we headed off for a walk around the Park. We had a leisurely walk around until we found ourselves about 1km down the 1300m straight track. With the track heading off into the distance, we realised that once we got to the other end we'd just have to turn around and walk all the way back, so we decided to just turn around and head back. By that time, most people had also drained their wine glasses, so they were anxious for a refill. While everyone was dithering around, a few horses started trotting down the track, so there was a scramble for everyone to get onto the other side of the safety fence.
Eventually, we wandered back to the gardens where we had set up the BBQ. On the way, some of us walked over to the 9-hole golf course on the property that was just waiting for somebody to tee-off. But it was empty.
We had a guessing competition while we were waiting for lunch. Rob brought out a horse whose weight we had to guess. Surprisingly, Cathy Hart, a recent member of Women in Racing, estimated the weight exactly. We also had a wine tasting from Robert Oatley Wines, courtesy of Vic Cowlishaw, one of our WiR members.
Rob took us for a wander through the extensive facilities in Capricorn Park. We were surprised to see the large number of empty stalls and unused training equipment such as horse walkers and swimming pool. It was clear that the Park can hold many more horses than the 10 or 12 there currently.
After the wander, we enjoyed a great BBQ cooked by Gerd and Burl, with plenty of rolls and salad for self-made hamburgers.
The weather was great all day, and we all enjoyed the outing.
A slideshow is below. If you can't see it, click here.
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.
Sunday, March 9, 2014
Black Opal & Racing Hall of Fame Dinner
This year the running of the Black Opal coincided with the Racing Hall of Fame dinner. So it was also a tiring day - with the formal dinner following on only a few hours after the races finished for the day. Just enough time to get home, changed, and then back out of the house again.
For those interested in fashions, the slideshow below shows a few photos of the Myer Fashions on the Field competition followed by more from the Hall of Fame dinner.
The dinner was held at the National Gallery in the Parliamentary Triangle. It started with drinks outside where we met up with each other and tried to get photographed by the press photographers. While some of us were magnets for the media, unfortunately their editors were a bit blind, so they didn't include us in their publications.
Dinner was in a big function room, with large screens at both the back and the front of the room so that everyone was able to see the presentations on the stage and the audio-visual presentations that accompanied them. There were several trainers inducted into the Hall of Fame, and some horses, trainers, owners, and racecallers.
When famous racehorse Subzero was announced, to everyone's surprise Subzero was paraded into the courtyard outside. Many rushed outside to have their photos taken with the horse. This was difficult unless you pushed Karyn away from it first. Unfortunately they also didn't cover any of this in the television coverage.
We had a very pleasant 3 course meal with plenty of wine all round. Except for us "designated drivers", of course.
A great time was had by all, with everything over by about 11 pm.
If you can't see the slideshow below, click here.
.
.
For those interested in fashions, the slideshow below shows a few photos of the Myer Fashions on the Field competition followed by more from the Hall of Fame dinner.
The dinner was held at the National Gallery in the Parliamentary Triangle. It started with drinks outside where we met up with each other and tried to get photographed by the press photographers. While some of us were magnets for the media, unfortunately their editors were a bit blind, so they didn't include us in their publications.
Dinner was in a big function room, with large screens at both the back and the front of the room so that everyone was able to see the presentations on the stage and the audio-visual presentations that accompanied them. There were several trainers inducted into the Hall of Fame, and some horses, trainers, owners, and racecallers.
When famous racehorse Subzero was announced, to everyone's surprise Subzero was paraded into the courtyard outside. Many rushed outside to have their photos taken with the horse. This was difficult unless you pushed Karyn away from it first. Unfortunately they also didn't cover any of this in the television coverage.
We had a very pleasant 3 course meal with plenty of wine all round. Except for us "designated drivers", of course.
A great time was had by all, with everything over by about 11 pm.
If you can't see the slideshow below, click here.
.
.
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Members' Lunch 2014
One of the regular events on the Women in Racing calendar is the annual Members' Lunch. This is a highly-subsidised event that allows members the opportunity to get together and enjoy a fine lunch while watching the races.
As in previous years, we had several visitors: Neroli and John Bevan from Lightning Ridge, Brook Holland, the Lightning Ridge Opal Queen, Dalys Whipp, winner of the 2014 Narooma Cup Fashions on the Field, and Clare Arthur, winner of the 2014 Harden Cup Fashions on the Field.
On the evening before the Members' Lunch, the Committee took our guests for a trip around Lake Burley Griffin. They had planned a BBQ onboard the boat, but the Captain suggested that they moor at Springbank Island and set up the tables on the pier. It was a beautiful evening, and we had BBQ while we watched the sun go down. Unfortunately, when the sun went down the temperature also went down by at least 10 degrees. So by the time we docked it felt like we were in Antarctica instead of Canberra. I think that it was particularly hard on the Lightning Ridge folks!
At the racecourse on Sunday, the day started off with Catherine introducing Dr Chris Ward, Chairman of the Canberra Racing Club. He spoke about the ongoing success of Canberra racing, and thanked Women In Racing for being so supportive of racing here in Canberra.
We also had the opportunity to welcome several new members: Jill McDonnell, Lanha Kaltenthaler, Jill Mann, and Rachael Henson.
During the afternoon we had our own Fashions on the Field competition, judged by Jan Palmer with our guests Dalys and Brook. There were competitions for Best Lady, Best Man, Best Couple, Best Hat, Best Tie, and Best Shoes.
At the end of the afternoon we went outside for the judging of the Myer Face of Racing that was held on the stage directly in front of where we were in Silks Restaurant.
Pictures of the day are below. As usual, if you can't see the slideshow, click here.
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As in previous years, we had several visitors: Neroli and John Bevan from Lightning Ridge, Brook Holland, the Lightning Ridge Opal Queen, Dalys Whipp, winner of the 2014 Narooma Cup Fashions on the Field, and Clare Arthur, winner of the 2014 Harden Cup Fashions on the Field.
On the evening before the Members' Lunch, the Committee took our guests for a trip around Lake Burley Griffin. They had planned a BBQ onboard the boat, but the Captain suggested that they moor at Springbank Island and set up the tables on the pier. It was a beautiful evening, and we had BBQ while we watched the sun go down. Unfortunately, when the sun went down the temperature also went down by at least 10 degrees. So by the time we docked it felt like we were in Antarctica instead of Canberra. I think that it was particularly hard on the Lightning Ridge folks!
At the racecourse on Sunday, the day started off with Catherine introducing Dr Chris Ward, Chairman of the Canberra Racing Club. He spoke about the ongoing success of Canberra racing, and thanked Women In Racing for being so supportive of racing here in Canberra.
We also had the opportunity to welcome several new members: Jill McDonnell, Lanha Kaltenthaler, Jill Mann, and Rachael Henson.
During the afternoon we had our own Fashions on the Field competition, judged by Jan Palmer with our guests Dalys and Brook. There were competitions for Best Lady, Best Man, Best Couple, Best Hat, Best Tie, and Best Shoes.
At the end of the afternoon we went outside for the judging of the Myer Face of Racing that was held on the stage directly in front of where we were in Silks Restaurant.
Pictures of the day are below. As usual, if you can't see the slideshow, click here.
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