They’re cute, they’re furry and they’re curious – meet the eight thoroughbred pigs who helped the Apex Club of Gunnedah raise more than $5000 on Saturday.
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The Courthouse Hotel hosted the hairy guests for the annual Pig Races which saw crowds of more than 200 gather under brightly coloured gazebos in the carpark which was transformed into an obstacle course.
The six races were commentated by Jimmy "Rasher” of Noah’s Thoroughbred Racing Pigs, with a Calcutta and sweeps on offer. Among the lucky winners were Sue Laut and Penny Sheppard. There were also plenty of activities for the kids including a hands-free corn eating contest, pin the tail on the pig, and a pig squealing competition.
Apex member Jess Wilde said it was the second year the club had partnered with the hotel for the event.
“I reckon it went really well. We made a change this year too and we put in seating and tables so that went in a lot smoother. That way people didn’t have to stand the whole time. Last year there were people who couldn’t see,” she said.
“We had people come up from the Hunter Valley, Narrabri, Tamworth, all around. I think there were a couple from Newcastle who came up.”
Hotel manager Zac Wheatland the numbers were higher than last year and there was a great atmosphere.
“Everyone was yelling and cheering every race,” he said.
“It was something different and everyone could bring their kids along.
“It was a better event this year and I can only see it getting bigger from here.”
Fellow manager Josh Launders said the hotel was focusing on running more family friendly events this year.
Mrs Wilde said it was a great day and she was thankful to the hotel staff for their help during the four months of planning
“They’re very easy to work with, very accommodating; they were very helpful. They had representatives turn up to our meetings. They helped plan as well,” she said.
Ms Wilde said the funds would be used for the benefit of the community and the club was currently looking for suggestions for their projects in 2017.
“We’ve put a call-out to the Gunnedah community on ideas for what they think we should do next. Is there something that we’re missing or we need?,” she said.
Ms Wilde invited people to let the club know their ideas via Facebook or at the next meeting on April 10 from 6pm at the Gunnedah Rugby Club.
