The full TAB meet features a seven race program with an impressive $140,000 in prize money up for grabs. 

The first race kicks off at 1.30pm with the feature race, the Parkes Service Club Australia Day Handicap, at 2.40pm.

President of the Parkes Jockey Club, Mark Ross, said they are expecting full fields. 

“Each race is worth $20,000 with $11,500 for each first place runner,” he said.

“Local and interstate bookies will be on course for our punters as well as the TAB.

“We are expecting cooler temperatures on the weekend, so it should all make for a great day of racing.

Mark said because the kitchen under the grandstand is unusable, the Quota Club will be unable to provide their usual catering.

“We are fortunate to have the Rural Fire Service cooking a barbecue luncheon, including steak and sausage sandwiches, with chips and drinks etc available,” Mark said.

“A full bar will also be in operation.

“There is free entry for members of the Parkes Service Club and if anyone would like to bring their own quick shade, put down a blanket and have a picnic, they are more than welcome.

“Just remember we have a no BYO alcohol policy.”

The Parkes Jockey Club held their annual general meeting in December with the board returned unanimously. 

Mark said the Club is financially sound.

“Obviously we had a major disaster during the storm and are in the process of going through insurance,” he said.

“We have had some good news though – hopefully the rebuild of the grandstand, kitchen and bar area will start next week.

“The kitchen has to be refurbished to bring it up to today’s standards and the grandstand will be rebuilt in the old style to keep the heritage aspect of it.

“There will also be a few modern touches including fire hoses, fire exits, disabled access and disabled toilets.

“Hopefully all the work will be complete in time for the June long weekend races.”