The Omeo and District Racing Club will host its traditional Labour Day long weekend meeting at Hinnomunjie this Saturday, with the feature race being the 150th running of the Hinnomunjie Cup, the iconic mountain picnic classic.
The meeting boasts a rich history, with the club claiming to be the oldest picnic race meeting this side of the Great Dividing Range, established in 1876. Originally spanning a full week and drawing thousands, the event is now the region’s premier social day, where horses, fashion, and festivities mingle, including the occasional buck’s or hen’s party and plenty of activities for children.
The Hinnomunjie Cup, run over 2000 metres, is now named in honour of Alec Manning, a local racing legend. Manning, who began life as a shearer in the region and continued de-flocking sheep well into his 70s, found his niche in racing, training and riding winners until his final ride at Wagga Wagga at age 62. His son, Reg Manning, has won the last three editions of the Cup, including last year with Anything But, marking his 30th Hinnomunjie Cup victory — 17 as a jockey and 13 as a trainer.
Entries for this year’s meeting are again exceptional, with patrons set to enjoy a six-race program packed with action. Local trainer Rob Gillahan from Ensay will be represented by Wunambal and Doctor Coto, who returned to form at Woolamai last week with an impressive second placing. Other trainers to watch include Traralgon’s Troy Kilgower, fresh from four winners at the Buchan meeting, and Cooma’s Georgie Boucher, known for producing a winner when racing south.
The fashions on the field are always a highlight, with this year’s categories including: Ms and Mr Most Historically Authentic, Ms and Mr Senior Racegoer, Lady of the Day and Mr Dapper, Miss and Mr Teenager, Miss and Mr Junior Racegoer, Miss and Master Tiny Tot, and Little Filly and Colt.
Free buses will depart Swifts Creek (10.40am), Omeo (10.45am) and Benambra (11.50am), returning from the racecourse at 5.30pm. Bookings are not required.
After the meeting, all roads lead to the Benambra Hotel for the annual Races After Party, featuring live music, country hospitality, and a perfect way to keep the festivities going.
