THE Dunkeld races certainly aren't the most luxurious of country race meets. There's no grandstand, no electricity and a paddock for a carpark.
But edged on the foot of the Grampians, at the base of mounts Sturgeon and Abrupt, Dunkeld's magnificent location more than makes up for any missing luxury.
With no permanent seating, it was Collingwood's 1970s half-back, Billy Picken, a local and former club secretary, who suggested introducing marquees to the Dunkeld races back in 2003.
By 2006 the idea was so successful, 198 marquees were needed to cater for the crowd that had escalated beyond 9000.
First held in 1937, the Dunkeld Cup's surge in popularity has won it Country Victoria's Best Racing Event, for the second year in a row.
Club president John Robertson says he remembers when the day meant a picnic in the back of the ute.
"It's just become so popular," John says.
"It has an almost cult following.
"People from all over come not just for the full racing field but for the picturesque atmosphere."
Dunkeld embodies the heart of country racing, according to John.
"It's an annual pilgrimage for thousands looking for a great social get-together," he says.
Club president Karen Van Kempen says planning for the cup begins a year in advance.
"The event takes community precedence over everything," Karen says.
"No one gets married on the weekend of the Dunkeld races and the cricket is cancelled altogether."
On its one racing day of the year, the modest course attracts all ages with go-karts, jumping castles and face painting to keep the kids occupied while parents have a punt.
And for the ladies, John says the Fashion on the Fields is a highlight.
"It's huge," John says,
"We have up to 100 entries and huge crowds gathering to watch the youngsters parade their outfits up on stage. It's very prestigious."
The Dunkeld Cup will be held on November 15.
