Horse Racing
2 April, 2026
Good Friday meet headlines Stawell harness action
A nine-race card of harness action, including heats and a final of the Pleasant Creek Plate, headlines Stawell HRC's annual Good Friday Appeal race meeting at Laidlaw Park.
The day kicks off with heats of the "Plate" at 1.15pm and 1.50pm over the sprint trip of 1785m with the first three placegetters going through to a berth in the $10,000 decider, which will be staged over the same distance at 5.55pm.
The balance of the 11-horse final is made up by the fastest five unplaced runners in the heats.
Along with the lion’s share of the prize money, the winning connections also receive a trophy and an inscribed rug.
"The committee came up with the heat/final same day concept to offer bread and butter horses, their owners and trainers who support our club, a chance to win really good prizemoney," explained the Club's racing manager, Mark Percival.
While the horses are the main focus, they won’t be the only athletes battling for glory along the home straight. Participants will compete in the Stawell Trainer Driver Gift – harness racing’s version of the famed Stawell Gift.
It's free entry, and off the track, there is plenty of family fun, including the Easter Egg Hunt, egg-and-spoon race, jumping castle, and a chance to win one of five draws for $100 cash.
Limited spaces may still be available at the Trackside Bistro; bookings are essential on 5358 1237.
Raising more than $7000 for last year’s Good Friday Appeal, the club hopes to exceed the tally this time around.