By David Nagel
Just taking a step back to soak in the history and tradition – that’s one of the key highlights for Cranbourne Turf Club CEO Neil Bainbridge after the club celebrated its 150th anniversary last week.
Almost 150 years to the day since the first race meeting on April 22, 1867, the club opened its doors for a race meeting run under lights on a Friday night.
Who would have thought!
Mr Bainbridge said researching for the event was an eye-opening experience.
“Sometimes we get carried away doing what we’re doing and we don’t take the time to brush up on the history and traditions of the things that are important to us,” Mr Bainbridge said.
“It was great to do some research and take a look at the significant contribution that the community has made to the club, and the club to the community. It’s mind-boggling to think how important this club has been to the City of Casey, in regards to the jobs it has created and the spirit it has garnered over 150 years.”
The community had also played an important part in the celebrations.
“The memorabilia display was tremendous,” Mr Bainbridge said.
“We had articles on display that were donated by members of the community and they created a lot of interest. To look back at the minutes of old committee meetings from 100 years ago, the race books, it was just an incredible and humbling experience.”
Mr Bainbridge said it was the people who made the turf club what it is today.
“I’ve been here for 11 years now and to take over from a person like Yvonne Blackwood, who served for 37 years and left the club in such a great position, is a great honour and one I still cherish today,” he said.
“Racing people like Robbie Griffiths, Doug Harrison and Ken Keys; they basically grew up at the track and can’t believe how much it has changed over the years. Back then they were riding and training with no lights and now they have the best training facilities in Australia.”
The Cranbourne Turf Club is certainly not standing still with some massive plans for the future.
“The Cranbourne Turf Club is incredibly well placed, close to the main street of a thriving community,” Mr Bainbridge said.
“We’re working closely with Major Projects Victoria to continue to implement our masterplan which began in 2009. The end result is going to see an event and entertainment facility that is going to be a pretty amazing asset for the wider community.
“We’ve also recently invested $6 million in the best on-course stabling in Australia and we’re about to invest another $7 million because the demand is so high. The club is in a pretty good position right now.”
