Community
17 February, 2026
Yass Picnic Races mark 125 years as $270,000 upgrade finalised.
The Yass Picnic Races will mark 125 years on February 28 at a revitalised Marchmont Racecourse.
The Yass Picnic Races will mark 125 years on February 28 at a revitalised Marchmont Racecourse.
The event comes on the back of $270,000 in upgrades with works focused on improving safety, power supply and access for local, regional and interstate visitors.
The Yass Picnic Races are a centrepiece of the Yass Valley’s late-summer calendar, drawing thousands for a weekend that blends racing with the region’s food, wine and heritage offerings. Organisers expect strong attendance from across NSW and beyond for this year’s anniversary event, delivering a welcome boost to local businesses and the visitor economy.
The revitalised venue has already secured a major coup. The Yass Polocrosse Club will return to Marchmont on 26–27 April 2026 after more than 40 years playing in the ACT. The two-day carnival is expected to attract more than 200 horses and riders, marking a milestone for one of Australia’s oldest continuously active polocrosse clubs.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the upgrades were about more than infrastructure.
“The Yass Picnic Races and the return of polocrosse to Marchmont are a testament to regional pride, tradition and community spirit,” he said.
“These upgrades support volunteers, stimulate tourism, and guarantee Marchmont remains a lively venue for generations to come.
Marchmont Racecourse Secretary Catherine Bennett said the Trust had worked hard to restore the venue and plan for its future.
“Bringing polocrosse back to Marchmont after four decades is an honourable milestone for our club and community,” she said.
“We’re proud to welcome riders and racegoers to a safer, more accessible venue. This year’s celebrations are especially meaningful as we mark the 125th anniversary of the Yass Picnic Races.
“We look forward to celebrating this historic occasion with the entire Yass Valley community and our visitors.”
Read More: Yass, Southern Tablelands