Racing camels return to Forbes this Good Friday

The Forbes Camel Races will be back for their 15th year on Good Friday, March 25 and the event is once again expected to be a top family day out.

This year will be extra special with racing in memory of two local camel jockeys who sadly passed away last year - Jaye Davie and Stuart Brown.

Both Jaye and Stuart had been involved in the Forbes Camel Races for many years, so it is a fitting tribute for both men.

This year more camels and their jockeys will be making the trek to Forbes from all over Australia with between 30 and 35 camels expected for the seven race program.

“That makes the day when you’ve got about eight [camels] in each race,” co-organiser Kerry Dunstan said.

As well as all the action on the track, there will be plenty to keep the whole family entertained including pedal power push bike shearing, sheep dog demonstrations, antique tractors and engines, kids foot races, a lolly drop, an animal nursery and entertainment by House of Tribes.

There will also be camel and helicopter rides on throughout the day, as well as the camel sweeps and a raffle running.

Plenty of food and drink stalls will be available as well as a licensed bar and food will be catered for Good Friday. No BYO on the grounds.

This year the Kombi Club of Australia will attend the races and will have their cars on display, so be sure to check them out.

Various local charities and organisations benefit from money raised on the day, so Forbes people are encouraged to head along and check out all the action at Forbes Racecourse.

“We invite all locals to come over and support it,” Mr Dunstan said.

“It’s a great day.”

Gates open at 10am and shut after the last race.

Entry is $10 for adults, $5 for aged pensions and kids under 16 are free.