One of NSW’s most cherished country race meetings, the Yass Picnic Races, will mark its 125th anniversary on February 28 on the back of significant upgrades to Marchmont Racecourse, which have improved safety and access for local, regional and interstate visitors.
The upgrades come as part of a $270,000 grant from the Minns Labor Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, and futureproofs the iconic course for racing enthusiasts, locals and visitors alike.
The races draw thousands of visitors to the Yass Valley for a vibrant late-summer weekend that blends sport with the region’s renowned food, wine, and heritage experiences, and this year’s quasquicentennial celebration is set to be one of the most special yet.
NSW, interstate and overseas visitors are expected to flock to the valley on February 28, boosting the region’s visitor economy, and supporting local jobs and businesses.
The $270,000 grant funded upgrades to energy infrastructure, with new power poles, lines, and a substation installed as well as a solar water pump. New power circuits now service sheds and the camping area, improving safety, reducing noise, and enhancing accessibility for extended, multi-day events.
The revitalised venue has already secured a major coup, with the Yass Polocrosse Club returning to Marchmont on 26–27 April 2026 after more than 40 years of playing in the ACT. Their two-day carnival is expected to attract over 200 horses and riders from across the region, marking a milestone for one of
Australia’s oldest continuously active polocrosse clubs.
These improvements build on a previous grant – which cleared waste material, and repaired internal roads and fencing – and these new upgrades ensure Marchmont remains a vibrant hub for sport, tourism, and community connection in the Yass Valley.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“The Yass Picnic Races and the return of polocrosse to Marchmont are a testament to regional pride, tradition and community spirit. These upgrades are about more than infrastructure; they support volunteers, stimulate tourism, and guarantee Marchmont remains a lively venue for generations to come.
“Fantastic events like the Picnic Races draw thousands of visitors to the area and support local businesses, helping us reach our ambitious target of $91 billion in annual visitor expenditure by 2035 – the key goal of our new Visitor Economy Strategy, which regional NSW is a huge part of.”
Marchmont Racecourse Secretary Catherine Bennett said:
“I am proud of the work the Trust has done in recent years to bring the asset back to a quality state and to develop a vision for future use. Bringing polocrosse back to Marchmont after four decades is an honourable milestone for our club and community.
“We’re honoured to contribute to Marchmont’s legacy and to welcome riders and racegoers to a safer, more accessible venue. This year’s celebrations are especially meaningful as we mark the 125th anniversary of the Yass Picnic Races.
“We look forward to celebrating this historic occasion with the entire Yass Valley community and our visitors.”