St Arnaud History

Like most Victorian country towns, people had been racing horses in St Arnaud for some time before the formal establishment of the St Arnaud club in October 1867. The town hosted its first official meeting in March 1867 and has a long history of thoroughbred racing.

One of the smaller country clubs in Victoria, St Arnaud has suffered as a result of the move to rationalize racecourses throughout Victoria, losing meetings. These days St Arnaud hosts just two meetings per year under the banner of the recently formed Wimmera Racing Club, however it is hoped that with fewer meetings to concentrate on racing in St Arnaud can continue to thrive long into the future.

The St Arnaud track has a 1600 metre circumference and a 400 metre long home straight, giving all horses a chance. Though a lack of water has been a problem in recent years, the scheduling of the town’s two meetings in spring time and some welcome recent rain mean the surface should remain in good condition. The central location of the course also helps ensure St Arnaud’s popularity as a racing venue with country owners and trainers.

The St Arnaud Cup Day is now held in late October, when racing is foremost on the minds of all Victorians, making it an extremely popular day.