Bendigo Harness Racing Club - We're Setting The Pace!


The Fifties
From July 1951 till the opening of the new Club a number of interesting motions were passed. On July 15th 1951 the Bendigo and district Trotting Club was formed with an interim Committee being elected. The first President was Mr Wally Hyett, Mr J S Elliott as Secretary and Mr A E Petherick as Treasurer. These men led the new Club through the early years of the clubs development. On Thursday November 8th 1951 the Trotting Control Board granted the Club registration and it expects to race on the Bendigo Racecourse when the Club receives its allocation of racing dates. “Trotting Boom” “No Race Track Retards Local Club’s Progress” This appeared in the Bendigo Advertiser on January 12th 1952. By the 30th of January the Club had been active and the report stated that an area of land was available very close to Bendigo; it was Garden Gully an area that the Council was developing. However, there was opposition from some members of the Council of the time, namely Cr N J Oliver and Cr A J Michelson. Other venues investigated were the new Agricultural Showground’s Site in Holmes Road, the Marong Race Course and The Bendigo Racecourse. On April 19th 1952 it was recorded in the Bendigo Advertiser that the trotting men invited to view the proposed 3 furlong track at the Show grounds, while on May 1st a photograph appeared in the Bendigo Advertiser showing Trotting Control Board Stewards viewing the proposed track and giving it their approval. On the 27th April 1952 Mr J Mooring moved and seconded by Mr Friswell, that the Committee adopt a Club constitution. April 1954 Building purchased for 525 Pounds to house the Secretary’s Office, Change room, Stewards room, Casualty room and Committee rooms. April 19th 1954 Track to be named “LORD’S RACEWAY”. Constitution approved by the Trotting Control Board. This was unanimously carried. At this same meeting the Committee accepted a loan of 750 pounds from the Trotting Control Board. At the Committee meeting on 5th November 1954 it was moved by Mr Friswell, seconded by Mr J Bourke that 5000 programmes be ordered for the Opening Meeting, from Cambridge Press for 89 Pounds. In November a field limit of 20 horses was set, however, this was changed in December 1954 to 25 horses. On the 12th January it was moved by Mr A A Lord to appoint Mr C Pratt as Caretaker of the track, at a salary of 13 pounds a week. In January it was also decided that each member of the Club be asked to contribute Two Guineas towards the new members stand. The 14th February saw the granting permission of the first truck displaying trotting gear for sale on race nights. On the 4th April 1954 it was brought to the attention of the Committee that strange horses were using the track for fast work. It was decided that a charge of 2/- per run per horse would be charged. The Speed Coursing Association requested if it might be possible to lease the Raceway and what might the arrangements be. August Annual Meeting 102 Members present. December 1954 Refreshment Tickets to be handed out exclusively by the President March 1955 Commentator to discontinue the practice of naming the winner in close finishes. September 1955 Mr F Collins appointed Timekeeper in place of Mr D Pain. At the Committee Meeting on the first of June the Committee decided to seek permission from the T.C.B. to display the Interdominion Trophies in Bendigo. At the Annual Meeting of 1956 it was decided that the fees should remain as for the previous season, viz, 2 pounds 16 shillings plus a Ladies Ticket @ 1 pound 50 shillings plus car fees 1 guinea. April 1956 Resignation of Mr L Jackman as Treasurer and Mr J Hall appointed as Treasurer. September 1956 Photo finish details obtained from T.C.B. October 1956 Mr Palmer appointed Tote Supervisor. October 1957 Mr R Grieve appointed Catcher on probation. On the 18th of May 1957 an approach was made to the Club to purchase the 23 acres adjacent to the track. The Committee informed Mr Rice that the Club did not intend to sell at this point in time. Mr Calderwood reported to the Club the issues of taxation and essential matters pertaining to the Club and was requested to redraft the Club’s Constitution. At the Committee Meeting on the 7th October it was moved by Mr T Michell and seconded by Mr Johnson that Mr R Grieve be appointed as Catcher. Mr Redwood moved seconded Mr Michell that free buses are provided for the patrons. On the 20th February Mr Hall resigned as Treasurer and Mr B Jennings was appointed to replace Mr Hall. In April permission was granted for “Walla Lawn” and “Willock” to be paraded at the next race meeting. At the Annual Meeting 1958, Mr S Touhey offered financial support for the use of the mobile barrier to be introduced at the Clubs meetings. During the Committee Meeting on the 18th October it was moved by Mr W C Rothacker and seconded by Mr H Redwood that the mobile barrier be used at least once a meeting during the forth coming season. During the Committee Meeting on the 16th March 1959 it was moved by Mr J Bourke and seconded by Mr T Michell that Mr Rushford be appointed Starter. April 1959 Catcher endeavours to secure 2 quieter horses. June 1959 It was suggested that Business Houses and Trotting enthusiasts be requested to make donations towards the installation of the Photo finish. September 1959 No action taken on the Mobile Barrier. [top]
The Sixties
16th August 1960 Mr Long moved, seconded Mr C Rothacker that the following members Mr A A Lord, Mr H Harrison and Mr J Mooring be awarded Life Membership of the Club at the Annual Meeting. 15th August 1961 Resignation of G P Hyett from the Committee. Mr A L Pearce Appointed to replace G P 19th December 1961 A deputation from the Bendigo Trotting Association re trials: Messrs Mason, Bourke and Pascoe represented the Association and placed before the meeting thoughts as to the necessity for continuance of and necessity for holding trials at the Raceway in preference to outside courses. 5th February 1963 F B Jennings appointed Secretary of the Bendigo and District Trotting Club. Miss V Gillies was appointed to the position of Hon. Treasurer of the Club. 27th March 1963 Mr J T Langdon appointed to the Committee to fill the vacancy occasioned by the death of Mr J W Mooring. 28th August 1963 At the Annual Meeting Guest Speaker; The Chairman of the Trotting Control Board the Hon. R T White 11th October 1963 Training Fees: Moved A A Lord, seconded Mr E Pocock the Secretary to be empowered to contact trainers who have not paid their training fees, and they be reported to the Trotting Control Board as defaulters. 22nd January 1964 Plans in place to entertain the Interdominion visitors. 10th July 1964 Mr T Michell resigns. 20th July 1964 A Letter dated 8th July 1964 from Mr A.A. Lord re interest free loan. Matter left in the hands of the Secretary. 3rd September 1964 Mr Neil Gillies suggested to the in coming Committee that the Club hold a Cup meeting. 16th February 1965 Moved Mr J P Bourke, second Mr Gillies that Mr A A Lord be informed that his position on the Committee has lapsed. 26th September 1965 Application from Bill Collins for the position of Course Broadcaster. Application from Bruce Skeggs for the position of Course Broadcaster. Bruce Skeggs appointed. 8th December 1965 Resignation of Mr H Harrison from Committee. 9th March 1966 Wash: It was decided to install an electric light in the horse wash. Mr Ray Heath elected to Committee, replacing Mr Harrison. 3rd May 1966 The Trotting Control Board requested the Club consider holding Saturday night meetings in the August – October period. The Club rejected the request owing to the climatic conditions were not favourable, and suggested Clubs such as Nyah and Mildura might be more suitable. 28th December 1966 First night trials conducted by the Club. 15th June 1967 First discussion of a Master Plan of the property introduced by Mr G Symons. 9th April 1968 Recognition of D Dove driving five winners. G Symons and G Pascoe moved and seconded, that a suitably inscribed trophy to the value of $10 be presented to Mr Dove. 28th January 1969 Meeting in the Presidents Room to form an Owners, Trainers and Drivers Association. February 1969 A match race was proposed between Adaptor and Golden Alley, each horse to receive $500 appearance money and the winner to receive $500. 20th March 1969 Match Race: As Adaptor had been sold to American interest the match race was not possible. Dale Symons granted permission to call some races on trial nights. 13 October 1969 It was decided to hold a Pacing Cup in January 1970. 27th November 1969 The Chairman (Mr J P Bourke) referred to the accident that happened to the President Mr V J Rothacker, and all present extended their wishes for a speedy recovery. [top]
The Seventies
14th October 1971 Conversion to the Metric System. October 1971 Transfer of freehold land to the crown. Mr C Pratt wanted to finish up as caretaker at the end of the year. November 1971 L Hynam appointed caretaker. February 1972 Club entitled to $65,000 over five years from Racecourse Development Fund. April 1972 Death of Foundation member of the Club Mr Harry Harrison. May 1972 434 people petitioned the Chief Secretary to keep the TAB opened on a Tuesday. June 1972 Representatives of the Coursing Association meet with Trotting Club to discuss aspects of the proposed move. Death of George Coulson a voluntary worker at the Club since its inception. August 1972 White ants infested the Tote building. December 1972 Mrs Coulson requested that she be permitted to donate an Honour Board to the Club in memory of her late husband. January 1973 Secretary presented preliminary drawings for improvements to the raceway. Trials to be held five days prior to each meeting. March 1973 Land to be transferred to Crown. April 1973 Club to continue negotiations re purchase land adjacent to the Club. $10, 000 Meeting, the Club to provide extra advertising and to decorate the stall to be occupied by “Gentleman John”, Interdominion Champion. July 1973 Mr Geoff O’Brien appointed Course Broadcaster October 1973 $80.000 per annum for five years, to be available for the Trotting and Greyhound Development funds for improvements to the Raceway. Mr R G Redwood resigns from the Committee. The Mobile barrier to be introduced at two meetings before the end of the season. November 1973 Mr Bernie Ahern elected to the Committee May 1974 Mr R Heavyside proposed to be made a Life Member of the Club. July 1974 Mr J P Bourke and Mr R M Heavyside were made Life Members of the Club. August 1974 Resignations of Mr W C Rothacker and Mr A A Rothacker from Committee. September 1974 Resignation of Mr B A’Hern from Committee. January 1975 Mr A Wignall approached to act as Course Farrier. May 1975 Mobile Barrier: Arising out of mishaps at the last meeting, it was resolved that in future Mobile Barrier events be held from the 2200 metres start only. June 1975 Mr Ray Heath appointed to the Trotting Control Board. Russell Swainston appointed Assistant Judge. July 1975 Mr J E Doolan resigned as Assistant Judge. August 1975 Death of Mr J Elliot initial Secretary of Bendigo Trotting Club. September 1975 Mr A Burrows appointed to replace Mr H O’Shea. February 1976 John Lane the photo finish operator was the busiest man on the course when the judge called for 5 photos on the 8-race programme. March 1976 Resignation of Mr G McKenzie as Judge and Mr R Swainston appointed as Judge and Mr Peter Stewart appointed as Assistant Judge. June 1976 Trials: That a fee for night trials be $2 per horse from the first of July 1976. July 1976 Development of the west side and a request to be made to obtain sufficient funds to prepare the new site for the future building programme. August 1976 Mr R Heath spoke of the proposed move to Moonee Valley by the Trotting Control Board. March 1977 Bendigo Trots held at Shepparton. August 1977 Opening meeting on the new track (three horses fell) October 1977 Track Records crash. Six Track Records were smashed November 1977 Director of Youth, Sport and Recreation, Mr Bert Keddie opened the initial stage of the Multi-Million Dollar improvement plan. August 1978 Reinswomen crack the ice at Raceway when Mrs D’arne Bellman finished third driving “Queenly Chief” racing against the men. [top]
The Eighties
August 1981 Twilight move a winner. Patrons support the early start. September 1982 Opening of the $2M complex by Mr Neil Tresize Minister for Youth, Sport and Recreation. June 1984 Judges stood down for a mistake in the placing’s. Mr L F Chalkley and Mr A S Rutland took over their positions for the rest of the meeting. February 1985 Club President, Mr Bernie Masterson not happy with the deal from the HRB. He said “It causes our Club extreme difficulties when we have to race on the night before or after Moonee Valley”. September 1985 Annual Meeting Guest Speaker: Mr Jim Wong. April 1986 Officials acclaim the new Mobile start. August 1986 Hot competition for Committee jobs. 18th February 1987 Financial: The Treasure reported that the number of paying customers showed a decline. May 20th 1987 Junior membership: It was resolved that at The Annual Meeting the constitution be amended to accept Junior Members. Applicants under 21 years of age. Fees to be $20. Harness Racing Training/Drivers Course: The Bendigo College of Tafe confirm that a meeting to discuss the conduct of a Harness Racing Training/Drivers Course would be held on Wednesday May 6th, 1987. June 17th 1987 Trainers and Drivers School Complex. The HRB be informed of the participation of the Bendigo Harness Racing Club in the formation of such a scheme. 15th December 1987 Drivers/Stewards Building Complex A meeting of the sub committee to be convened in January 1988 for the purpose of discussing the implementation of this project. January 20th 1988 Starter Mr Keith Stemmer is recommended to the board as a suitable person to hold such a licence. 16th March 1988 Harness Racing Board suggested that the future Wednesday meetings be held as twilight meetings with the first race starting between 4pm - 5pm. 20th April 1988 A talk given by Dr Tony Britt outlining the submission that T.V. coverage on the Friday circuit between the hours 5pm – 9pm. It was moved by Mr Masterson and Mr J Maher that the club accept the offer of the Board to conduct Friday twilight meetings on Sky Channel. June 1988 Standing orders were suspended and the President Mr L F Chalkley allowed a task force from The Harness Racing Board who were investigating the Club’s reason for resigning from the Country Clubs Association. July 20th 1988 Sebastian Light Harness Club seeking permission to hold two restricted meetings at the course. Both Mr K S Mitchell and Mr Ron Oliver complained about the decision to hold twilight meetings. Replies sent. August 12th 1988 Caravan for Lady Drivers. Building sub-committee go into the matter of purchasing a caravan for this purpose. 14th September 1988 Grounds and buildings: Horse urinal doors completed much to the relief of the horses, Caravan for Lady Drivers to be sited and the annex to be offered for sale to the original owner. October 19th 1988 Caravan for Ladies change room put in place in the horse area. December 14th 1988 Mr Wal Churchill to act as Father Christmas. February 15th 1989 Tafe Course: The Minister Mr E Walker will officially declare this course open at a breakfast on the 17th 1989. May 31st 1989 The meeting started with all members standing in silence for 60 seconds as a mark of respect for the passing of Brian Jennings. Replacement of the Secretary: A discussion took place on the appointment of a Secretary. 23rd June 1989 23 Applications for the position of Secretary. 6th July 1989 Three people recommended for consideration for the position of Secretary. Mr Ken Yates was offered the position of Secretary of the Bendigo Harness Racing Club. 13th September 1989 Annual Meeting Guest Speaker: Mr Rod Osborne (Chairman of Stewards) 13th December 1989 Ken Pocock approached to have “Game Oro” lead the Cup field out on Cup night. [top]
The Nineties
17 January 1990 A letter be forwarded to Ted Zimmer for his services to the Club. 18th July 1990 Moved for Mr L Chalkley to be awarded Life Membership at the Annual Meeting. Mr K Matthews also be granted Life Membership. 15th August 1990 Renewal of acquaintances with the Bendigo Jockey Club. Moved that Les Pascoe be awarded Life Membership at this Years Annual Meeting. Annual Meeting 24th October 1990 Guest Speaker: Mr Tim Walsh Chairman of the Harness Racing Board spoke of the challenges the Industry is facing. October 1990 Training Centre Barn: The Barn had been designed and that a registration of interest for tenders had been called for. December 1990 Gold Nugget Series: It was decided to approach Ballarat and Maryborough in conducting a Gold Nugget Series. January 1991 Plans were tabled for a Public Restaurant to be established in the Grandstand. February 1991 John Randles had been named Harness Racing Personality of the year. July 1991 G Maher given permission to develop a track conditioner for the Club. October Annual Meeting Guest Speaker: Mr David Martyn, Marketing Manager of the Harness Racing Board Mr Martyn spoke on the issues regarding marketing principles and strategies. Merna Graham elected to the Committee. March 1992 Establishment of a Museum at the Club. Formation of a sub-committee to investigate. July 1992 J Rilen and J Grenfell interested in learning the duties of a Club Steward Costing of the reconstruction of the track. September 1992 Mr Peter Svanosio awarded Life Membership. October 1992 Annual Meeting Guest Speaker: Mr Matt Donaldson of Charlton. He spoke on his recent trip to compete in The World Cup Amateur Driving Championship in Paris March 1993 Proposal for a Museum/Theme Park for the Complex. May 1993 Visit of Mr Tom Reynolds, Minister for Sport and Recreation. Introduction of the concept of a perpetual Rothacker Trotters Classic. August 1993 Contact had been made with Harold Park re-the consultant Daniel Coon. The running of the K Pocock Memorial Race, Mrs D Pocock to provide the Trophy September 1993 Visit by H.R.B. Chairman Mr Ian McEwan Mr S Rutland awarded Life Membership at Annual Meeting. Annual Meeting Guest Speaker: Mr Duncan McPherson Country Clubs Manager. Mr McPherson spoke on the long term strategic planning of the H.R.B. January 1994 Volunteer workers to wear identification outfits. February 1994 Visit by Vic Safe Consultant Visit by Daniel Coon to conduct a feasibility study of track. April 1994 Daniel Coon provided 3 options to the Club, A, B and C. The Club opted for Option B. October 1994 Keith Bibby presented with a plaque and set of glasses for his services to the Club over many years. Annual Meeting Guest Speaker- Mr Alan Galloway of Alabar Farms. Mr Alan Galloway spoke of the development of Alabar Farms. May 1995 B Morgan and L Maher nominated for Life Memberships. June 1995 Bill and Margaret Hanson nominated for Life Memberships. July 1995 Life Member and Past President Jim Bourke passed away. Retirement of L Chalkley as a Committee Member. August 1995 Mr B Edwards appointed to the casual vacancy on the Committee At the Annual Meeting Life Memberships were awarded to the following: Margaret and Bill Hanson, B Morgan and L Maher. Guest Speaker: Mr Kevin Newbound, President of the Studmasters Association spoke on the issues affecting the Breeding industry. May 1995 “Club 100” commenced April 1996 P Graydon to co-ordinate the Horse Sale on the 28th April. Internet – Mr B. Winzar to set up the Internet System. August 1997 First Breeders Crown Series started. Finals at Bendigo. [top]
The Two Thousands
June 2000 Volunteers to be paid appropriate award rates. September 2000 Eric Rothacker to be Guest Speaker at the Annual Meeting. October 2000 Resignation of D Bice from Committee. Paul Morrissey invited to fill the Committee vacancy. November 2000 Money available for the construction of a lift to the first floor. March 2001 Goldwood Park Sprint Lane established. July 2001 “Maoris Idol” monument to be placed inside archway gate. At the Annual Meeting Guest Speaker: Mr Terry Bailey chief steward. August 2001 Presentation to Kerryn Gath for her record success this season. K. Matthews and L Pascoe nominated for Legends/Distinguished Service. Volunteer awards (Certificate of Appreciation). The following were nominated: Ladies Committee, Mavis Collinson, Trial volunteers, Executive OTDA, Len Maher and Graeme Maher. November 2001 Legends Club Les Pascoe and Kevin Matthews have been admitted to the Legends Club. Angled Mobile Barrier – Advise the HRV that the angled barrier is not successful in its present form. December 2001 Native Title Claim: A claim has been made on the land we operate on. May 2003 Bush rose and plaque to be placed in garden near HRTC Office in memory of Don Herbert. August 2004 Most successful Breeders Crown Meeting in August Commenced planing for the new Thousand metre race track [top]