After four long years, the Bundarra Cup is finally back. On Saturday, 4 October, the Bundarra Racecourse will once again come alive with colour, crowds, and the thundering of hooves, marking the much-anticipated revival of the town’s most celebrated social event.
The turnaround began in August this year, when the Bundarra Racing Club was officially formed.
The decision was driven by locals who felt strongly that the Cup belonged in Bundarra, and that the community itself should take charge of preserving its future. Since then, volunteers have worked tirelessly, spending countless hours clearing and repairing the track, restoring facilities, and ensuring the course looks its best for race day.
Chair of the Bundarra Racing Club, Matthew Monk, believes that the community is the vital key to bringing the much-loved race back to life.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support,” said Mr Monk.
“It’s been a lot of work re-registering the club and basically building everything from the ground up again but the community, not just locally but also further afield, have just been on board from day dot – we’ve had so much help in sponsorships, in-kind support and working bees, it makes you realise how important and iconic this event is.”
The effort has extended beyond the racecourse, with Bundarra itself undergoing major improvements in recent years. From new footpaths and upgraded internet access, to a refreshed caravan and RV park, the town has been steadily investing in its future. The timing couldn’t be better, with the upgrades set to welcome the visitors expected for the Cup.
“There’s been a big impact felt by the local business community in not having the race, so the town is very much looking forward to being open for business on the October long weekend,” said Mr Monk.
This year’s event will feature a six-race program and has already secured support from a dozen major sponsors. As well as the racing, spectators can look forward to plenty of food, drinks and good old-fashioned country hospitality, ensuring it will be a day of celebration for the whole family.
“We’re still working on the track and the facilities, things fall into disrepair when they’re not used for that long and also technology in racing has changed a lot in the last five years but we’re on track for the 4th of October,” said Mr Monk.
“Our only uncertainty is of course the weather but I’m saying rain, hail or shine something is going to be running around that track on the October long weekend!”
The Bundarra Cup carries a proud history, with the first official race dating back to 1906. The event was held at the historic Bundarra Racecourse for more than a century before being relocated to Armidale in 2024. The return of the Cup to Bundarra in 2025 not only restores an important tradition but also strengthens community spirit.
For locals, it is more than just a race meeting. It’s a chance to reconnect with old friends, welcome back former residents, and showcase the best of what Bundarra has to offer. It’s also a not-for-profit event, with all proceeds going back into supporting the community.
When asked what he believes makes the Bundarra Cup unique, Mr Monk said, “It’s the way it brings the community together, the real sense of camaraderie – It’s a good old-fashioned country race day and it’s such an enjoyable time for the people of Bundarra and tourists alike.”
The revival of the Bundarra Cup represents more than just the return of a racing tradition, it’s a statement of pride, resilience, and optimism for the future. As the community prepares to welcome visitors on October 4, excitement is building for what promises to be a historic and unforgettable day.
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