The 79th Harts Range Races and Bush Sports Weekend will run from Friday 31 July to Monday 3 August.
The iconic event brings country racing, rodeo, bush sports and entertainment to the East MacDonell Ranges.
The weekend supports regional visitation while celebrating the people, skills and traditions of Central Australia.
The Territory’s rodeo circuit heads to Harts Range this weekend as one of Central Australia’s most iconic events returns for its 79th year.
Held 215km east of Alice Springs, the Harts Range Races and Bush Sports Weekend will bring locals, station families, competitors and visitors together for four days of racing, rodeo and traditional bush sports.
Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Racing, Marie-Clare Boothby, said the event is a true celebration of the Territory lifestyle and an important part of the Northern Territory’s racing calendar.
“Harts Range is everything people love about the Territory – big country, fierce competition, strong communities, a proud racing tradition and a warm welcome,” Minister Boothby said.
“For 79 years, this event has brought people together and kept the traditions of the bush alive.
“As Minister for Racing, I know just how important events like Harts Range are to the strength of our racing industry. It is an iconic stop on the Territory’s racing and rodeo calendar, attracting competitors, families and visitors from across the Territory and beyond.”
The Harts Range Amateur Race Club President Malcolm Chalmers said the event has been at the heart of the community for generations.
“My parents, both being Life Members, meant I grew up with the Harts Range Races a big part of my entire life. It’s more than just an event for our family, it’s a tradition, a community and a place that will always feel like home,” Mr Chalmers said.
The weekend begins with the Red Centre Campdraft before a packed program featuring rodeo, amateur horse racing, stockhorse racing, motorkhana, gymkhana, novelty events and Fashions on the Field.
Saturday will finish with the traditional Harts Range Bush Dance, while Sunday’s program includes family races, tug of war, the Ladies Cow Tail Toss, trivia and talent events.
Free camping is available at the racecourse, with children under 16 admitted free when accompanied by an adult, making it an affordable weekend for the whole family.
