Gates open at 12.30pm for the full TAB seven race, $140,000 meeting with local and interstate bookies on course.

President Mark Ross said the first race will run at 2pm and the last at 6pm.

“Because our Australia Day meet is on Saturday and there's a lot of racing on Friday, they have booted us up towards Sky 1,” he said.

“They have put us on Sky International.

“That means Parkes racing will be showcased internationally in America, Asian countries, the Isle of Mann, and Germany.”

Mark said Sky feeds it into Las Vegas and from there it is broadcast to associated partners in different states of America who allow gambling on racing.

“Las Vegas never shuts, there will be someone punting,” he said.

“It also goes to a hub on the Isle of Mann and from there it is broadcast to European countries.

“It’s a big boost to us, not only showcasing Parkes racing but hopefully it brings a bit more TAB turnover.”

Parkes Services Club members will receive free entry on Saturday when they show their current membership card at the gate.

“The Services Club have kindly organised their courtesy bus for us,” Mark said.

“The driver will take punters from the Club to the racecourse from 12.30pm to 2pm and then back to the club after the last race.”

Mark said there will be plenty for everyone on the day.

“We have a great raffle of a limited edition Winx print signed by Hugh Bowman,” he said.

Tickets are $2 each, with the print and $100 as first prize, $75 second prize and $50 third. 

D'Aquino's have donated gift baskets for the best Aussie dressed male and female, so go along dressed in your finest Australia Day gear for you chance to win a great prize.

As part of the Jockey Club’s partership with XXXX they will be giving away sun hats and stubby holders over the bar when you purchase XXXX products.

“We are also in partnership with the Cancer Council and will have sunscreen available for racegoers to look after themselves,” Mark said. 

The Rural Fire Service will again be catering a barbecue luncheon until the grandstand refurbishments have been completed. 

“The refurbishment work on the small grandstand is finished,” Mark said.

“Now we are waiting for the main grandstand to be completed.

“It has a new roof and floor and all the structural work is complete.

“It has a new concrete floor underneath and next they will start on the brickwork.

“Once that is complete they’ll install a new kitchen and bar area and disabled toilet.

“Hopefully it will all be done by the end of February or early March in time for our Gold Cup race meet in May.

“This year we are reintroducing a Calcutta for the Gold Cup.”