Oldest race club in WA set for 2024-25 season as Geraldton Turf Club opens its doors this week for first meet

The oldest provincial race club in Western Australia is gearing up for another exciting season with the Geraldton Turf Club kicking off the 2024-25 campaign this week.

Last season had plenty of highlights and this year looks to be just as good.

The opening meet is this Thursday October 3, with gates open at noon and free entry.

The first marquee event on the club’s calendar is Ladies Day on October 13.

Introduced a few years ago, it has quickly become one of the most popular days at the GTC with ever growing numbers for a Fashions on the Field event.

However there will be a hole in the heart of the club’s ring, with the last remaining bookmaker Rod Laing retiring a few months ago.

Laing was the last man standing of a dying breed, but the shift to online betting has pushed out the old bookie.

The season will feature 20 race days and follows the trend from last year of stretching them out to avoid the heat, with race meets running through until May 4.

Despite being a historic club, it will be looking new and improved with upgrades to the track’s audio system being undertaken in the off season.

Mark the calendars for Ladies Day, the Melbourne Cup on November 5, the Walkaway Cup on December 27 and the big one - the Geraldton Gold Cup on April 6.