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Behind the Scenes at the Mt Garnet Races & Rodeo: The Tireless Work of the Trustees

More Than Just a Weekend Event

While the Mt Garnet Races and Rodeo may seem like a weekend of celebration, competition, and community spirit, few people realise the immense year-round effort that goes into making it all possible.

At the heart of this effort is a small but dedicated team—the Trustees of L.D. Lucey Memorial Park Inc.—who work tirelessly to maintain, upgrade, and manage the 46-hectare reserve that hosts this iconic event.

The trustees remain committed to preserving and enhancing the park for the benefit of the broader Mt Garnet community and beyond.

Significant Infrastructure Upgrades

Over the past four years, the trustees have overseen significant upgrades to the property’s infrastructure. These include the installation of a major electrical switchboard, separation of power supplies for ancillary clubs, improvements to water infrastructure, and the purchase of vital fire safety equipment like a dedicated firefighting unit.

Much of this work has been made possible through successful grant applications, community support, and volunteer labour.

A Long-Awaited Management Plan Delivered

In response to a long-outstanding government request dating back to 2009, the trustees also developed a comprehensive Management Plan for the reserve.

This plan, officially approved in 2025 after three years of consultation and drafting, outlines how the land is to be managed in alignment with both its recreational purpose and evolving community needs.

The plan also introduces measures ensuring accountability and compliance across the board.

The Critical Role of the Race Club and Rodeo Committee

But the responsibility for maintaining and improving the grounds doesn’t rest on the trustees alone.

Both the Mt Garnet Turf Club and the Rodeo Committee make massive, ongoing contributions to the reserve.

These clubs invest significantly in maintaining and upgrading their own facilities, which in turn benefits the overall site.

Their work not only enhances the event experience but also reduces the pressure on the trustees by taking ownership of their spaces within the broader reserve.

Their dedication—through labour, fundraising, and financial investment—cannot be overstated.

A Community of Clubs Working Together

L.D. Lucey Memorial Park is home to several community groups and clubs that each contribute in vital ways to the running and upkeep of the reserve. The four key entities that work hand-in-hand are:

• The Trustee Committee – Responsible for the overall management of the park, the trustees ensure the land is maintained in accordance with state requirements. They oversee infrastructure, permits, environmental compliance, and the general upkeep of the entire reserve.

• The Mt Garnet Turf Club – With a long and proud history, the Turf Club manages and maintains the racetrack and associated facilities. Their efforts ensure that two days of competitive country racing go off without a hitch every year. Beyond race weekend, the club contributes to infrastructure projects, waste management systems, and site presentation.

• The Mt Garnet Rodeo Committee – The rodeo grounds are the domain of the Rodeo Committee, who maintain the arena, yards, and public seating. Their contribution extends far beyond event weekend, supporting safety improvements, contributing financially to shared infrastructure, and volunteering countless hours toward site prep and recovery.

• The Mt Garnet Golf Club – The Golf Club is responsible for maintaining the course that winds through the reserve. Their work should support both locals and visitors who enjoy the park outside of event season. The club also brings in its own community and activities, such as junior tournaments that add to the year-round use of the reserve.

Each of these clubs operates their area independently but with a shared goal: delivering one of North Queensland’s most iconic events while preserving the functionality and character of the reserve.

Together, their collaboration ensures that improvements benefit everyone—racegoers, rodeo fans, golfers, campers, and the broader Mt Garnet community.

Community Spirit in Action

These efforts go far beyond race day. Working bees—like the one held each Australia Day weekend—see volunteers gather from across the region to mow, whipper-snip, complete plumbing, install safety buffers, and clean up the grounds.

The reserve is managed with care and attention to detail, from weed control and fencing to waste management and native vegetation protection.

The trustees have also built strong relationships with neighbouring landowners, local government, and emergency services to ensure the reserve operates smoothly and safely.

A Major Boost to the Local Economy

In total, the annual event contributes an estimated three-quarters of a million dollars to the regional economy, proving just how vital this volunteer-led initiative is for the Mt Garnet community.

From the SES cadets to the Lions Club, from town locals to visitors from as far as Brisbane and Hughenden, it takes a collective effort to pull off such a remarkable event.

A Legacy Built on Dedication

The trustees may not seek the spotlight, but their behind-the-scenes contributions are the bedrock upon which the Mt Garnet Races and Rodeo is built.

Their dedication ensures that generations to come can continue to gather, celebrate, and enjoy one of North Queensland’s most treasured events.

Keeping the Community Connected

These newsletters are designed to keep our community informed, acknowledge the many hands behind the scenes, and remind us of the collective spirit that keeps this special place thriving.