Frequently Asked Questions

Race Day Planning

I've just tried to book accommodation in Scone and it's all booked out! What are my options?

Accommodation in Scone around Horse Week/Scone Carnival is generally fully booked a year in advance. Neighbouring townships include Aberdeen (15 minute drive from Scone), Gundy (20 minute drive from Scone), Murrurundi (25 minute drive from Scone), Muswellbrook (25 minute drive from Scone), Singleton (60 minute drive from Scone) and Pokolbin (90 minute drive from Scone).

Can I pre-book general admission tickets to the Scone Carnival?

Yes. General admission passes can be purchased from the Secretary's Office at the Scone Race Club or over the phone on 02 6545 1607. Alternatively, the Scone Newsagency (185 Kelly Street, Scone 02 6545 1956) sells general admission passes and race books. Dedicated entry points ensure limited queuing for patrons with pre purchased admission passes on both days of the Carnival.

What is the weather like in Scone in May?

Minimum temperatures can vary between 4.1 - 9.7 degrees with maximum temperatures between 18.5 - 22.4 degrees. Keep an eye on the weather on the Elders Weather website.

Is there public transport to and from the Scone Race Club?

Yes. Buses operate between Scone, Muswellbrook and Aberdeen. Bus timetables will be published on this website once finalised for 2012.

Can I park my car at the races?

Yes. There are plenty of free parking spaces available.

Does the Scone Race Club have disabled facilities?

Yes. The grounds and buildings of the Scone Race Club including marquee areas all have disability access.

I am an owner, do I receive any benefits?

Yes. Owners with horses running on the race day are granted an owners refund. To obtain the refund (general admission pass price), owners must be listed in the race book. Syndicates are entitled to a maximum of six (6) general admission refunds. Please be advised that photo identification is required to obtain the refund from the Secretary's office.

On The Day

What time do the gates open?

Over the two day carnival, gates open at 11:00am.

How much are general entry tickets?

General admission passes are:

Adults: $20

Student/Concession/Children over 13: $10

Children Under 12: Free

Please note that children under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

Who is entitled to concession entry?

Concession tickets are available to the following concession holders: aged pension, disabled pension and carer's pension. A current pension card must be presented at the ticket counter. Please note that the concession entry price does not apply to Senior Card holders.

Where can I purchase a race book?

Race books can be purchased on the day at dedicated stall at the racecourse. Preceding the Carnival, race books are also sold at the Scone Newsagency (185 Kelly Street Scone 02 6545 1956)

Can I bring my own alcohol to the racecourse?

No. As the Scone Race Club is fully licensed, you are not permitted to bring alcohol into the venue, under any circumstance. There are ample facilities to purchase alcoholic beverages on race days. The Scone Race Club practices the responsible service of alcohol and adheres to a strict house policy. Guests of the Scone Race Club are advised that ALL bags and containers being brought onto the racecourse are subject to inspection.

What food can I bring to the racecourse?

An excellent variety of well-priced food and beverages are available to patrons over the course of the carnival. Food intended for GROUP CONSUMPTION, platters and picnic baskets are not permitted. Patrons are welcome to bring individual foods such as sandwiches, biscuits, cheese, fruit or any special dietary needs food. Sealed bottles of water (no glass) and individual tea and coffee flasks are permitted in the general admission areas. Guests of the Scone Race Club are advised that ALL bags and containers being brought onto the racecourse are subject to inspection.

Can I reserve outdoor tables and chairs?

The outdoor tables and chairs are freely available to all general admission guests on a first-come, first-served basis. They are not able to be reserved. We recommend the public hospitality and dining marquees to those patrons who wish to see the races from a vantage point with reserved, undercover seating.

Smoking

The Scone Race Club is a public venue and subject to venue smoking laws. Smoking is only permitted in open areas.

Can I bring a fold up chair or beach umbrella?

Fold up chairs are permitted on course, however beach umbrellas or any tent or marquee like structures are not, to ensure the comfort and enjoyment of all patrons.

Can I bring my professional camera?

Small digital cameras are encouraged at the Scone Race Club however professional photography is not permitted without prior consent. Media members should note media passes are available from the Secretary's Office prior to Carnival commencement.

 **The Scone Race Club reserves the right to change pricing, times and any information regarding the 2012 Scone Carnival without notice**