National Thoroughbred Week
November 20-24, 2025
A gentle giant nuzzles your palm. The kids are locking eyes with a curious foal. This isn’t a dream, it’s your Saturday during National Thoroughbred Week, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to step behind the scenes of the Thoroughbred world. For one magical week (20–24 Nov 2025), dozens of stables, stud farms and aftercare centres are throwing open their gates to you.
Meet the horses, meet the people and experience the heart of the racing industry all up close for free.
It’s a transparent, open invitation to connect with an industry that wants to show you everything. Think of it as a backstage pass to the world of horses, a community-first event with nothing to hide and everything to share. Whether you’ve cheered on the Melbourne Cup every year or can’t tell a hoof from a horseshoe, you’re invited with open arms. Come for the fun, free, fascinating day out that the whole family will love, and leave with memories (and maybe a bit of horse hair) to cherish.
National Thoroughbred Week
What to Expect
Ever wondered what a day at the stables feels like? At National Thoroughbred Week, you’ll get to find out firsthand. Depending on where you go, you could experience:
Meeting a foal:
Spend the afternoon with a newborn foal and its mum and learn how breeders care for the littlest future champions.
Brushing an athlete:
Grab a curry comb and groom a gentle racehorse. Hear the stories of their victories as you give them a well-earned scratch on the neck.
Watching a training session:
Stand rail-side at dawn and watch horses thundering past in morning trackwork. See real training in action and chat with the jockeys or trainers about how they prep these athletes.
Feeding a retired racehorse:
Offer a carrot to a living legend enjoying its retirement. You’ll get up close and personal with former racehorses now loving the quiet life and yes, they love treats.
Who is it for?
Families
Looking for a fun weekend adventure? Bring the whole brood from toddlers to Grandpa and enjoy a sunny arvo on the farm. The kids will be talking about patting ponies for weeks!
Sports Fans
If you love the races or any sport, this is the ultimate behind-the-scenes tour. Go beyond the grandstand and into the barn. See where champions are made, talk to trainers, and get a new perspective on the sport.
Animal Lovers
Your happy place is anywhere surrounded by furry friends? Come cuddle up to these gentle giants. Expect plenty of velvety muzzles, soft whinnies, and ear-to-ear grins (bring your camera for those selfies!).
Rural Dreamers
Ever fantasised about country life? Breathe in the fresh hay and country air, wander through green paddocks, and imagine the farm life you’ve always dreamed of, even if it’s just for a day. This is your chance to step into those boots and see it firsthand.
