Forty of us dressed up as celebrities from a range of fields – media, racing personalities, movie stars, politicians and members of the royal family.

President Raelene Rout (looking resplendent as Prince Phillip) was Emcee for the evening, and endeavoured to also pay sufficient attention to Queen Elizabeth II (Val Worthington).

Miriam Luyt and her social committee organised a great night at the Railway Bowling Club including a supper which was in keeping with our catering theme at the races – hot dogs, sausage sandwiches and home-made slices.

Who does the catering when the caterers are enjoying a night out?

Well, a big cheer went up for two husbands, Laurie Neville and Rod Luyt who worked away in the kitchen – unseen and unheard, but definitely there cooking up a storm.

The winner of the best dressed outfit was Robyn Morrissey who came as Maggie Smith’s The Lady in the Van.

Best couple went to John Singleton (Marg Klein) and Rose Porteous Hancock (Janet O’Donoghue).

Also getting a mention for their outfits were Dame Edna (Elsie Mahon) and Barbara Cartland (Judy Thornton).

There were even some “horse” races where members had to race each other to the finish line on their hobby horses.

Carolyn Rice gave an overview of our catering over the last 25 years and although there have been many changes, the one constant factor was that members always made sure to have some fun and enjoy each other’s company whilst putting in a hard day’s work.

That has proven to be a real recipe for success.

Carolyn recalled the early years when Parkes had 11 race meetings a year!

Now there are just four meetings per year.

Catering at the races is a major fund raiser for Quota and we cater from the facility underneath the grandstand.

Sausage sandwiches and steak sandwiches from the BBQ, hotdogs, salads, a range of fresh sandwiches, hot chips and plenty of cold drinks are always on hand.

Many of our members are well known for their cooking, so their home-made slices are very popular, especially with a cup of tea or coffee.