ABOUT THE BERNBOROUGH CLUB

THE BERNBOROUGH CLUB INC is a non-profit organisation incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act 1981. As stated in its rules, the club’s objects are to:

(i) promote the continued recognition of the champion racehorse Bernborough and his marvellous feats;

(ii) provide regular get-togethers for men interested in thoroughbred racing and other sports;and

(iii) through well-planned luncheon meetings of club members and guests, to raise money for a range of charitable causes.

From humble beginnings 38 years ago _ when 25 men of goodwill met in the members’ bar at the then Albion Park Racecourse (prior to its closure as a galloping venue) _ the Bernborough Club was formed. This small but enthusiastic group of friends were of one mind: that the mighty Bernborough’s name should be perpetuated through regular meetings, where a high standard of fellowship and entertainment would be set, and where support for charitable caused would be fostered.

Over the years, the club’s founding ideals have been repeatedly met, and in the last five years our annual distribution to charities has been $48,000. This, of course, has only been possible through the generous support shown by members and their guests for luncheon raffles and the occasional auction. As well, the contribution of the vast array of guest speakers and interviewees, who have donated their time and talents, has been invaluable. Without their assistance, the club would struggle to continue in its present form.

A typical year’s program involves functions in February (New Year’s Luncheon), March-April (Toowoomba_ Weetwood Day bus trip); May (opening Winter Racing Carnival Luncheon); June (AAMI Stradbroke Handicap Luncheon); August (Midweek race meeting Marquee Afternoon);September -October (Spring Luncheon) and November-December (Christmas Luncheon). These arrangements have proved very popular with the club’s 300 (plus) members, with the average attendance at functions being more than 200. Aside from racetrack luncheons, the club’s principal function venue is Tattersall’s Club.

Since its inception in 1976, the club was energetically led by the late Jim Anderson, a popular fugure and former Turf Editor of the Courier-Mail/Sunday-Mail. Upon Jim’s retirement as president in 2010, the baton was passed to another prominent turf personality Bart Sinclair who also served as Turf Editor of the Courier-Mail/Sunday-Mail.